Langimage
English

representatives

|rep/re/sen/ta/tives|

B2

/ˌrɛprɪˈzɛntətɪvz/

(representative)

acting on behalf

Base FormPluralNounNoun
representativerepresentativesunrepresentativenessnon-representativeness
Etymology
Etymology Information

'representative' originates from the Latin word 'repraesentare,' where 're-' meant 'again' and 'praesentare' meant 'to present.'

Historical Evolution

'repraesentare' transformed into the Old French word 'representer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'representative' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to present again,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person who represents others.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person chosen or appointed to act or speak for another or others, especially in a legislative assembly.

The representatives from each state gathered for the meeting.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

a member of the House of Representatives in the United States Congress.

The representatives debated the new bill for hours.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45