congresswoman
Meaning
A woman who is a member of a congress, especially the US House of Representatives.
Structure
Usage
The congresswoman gave a powerful speech on the floor of the House.
She was the first congresswoman elected from her state.
Several congresswomen co-sponsored the new healthcare bill.
Etymology
The word is a modern American English compound, formed in the late 19th century as women began to enter national politics. Its first element, 'congress', traces back to Latin 'congressus', meaning a meeting or assembly, derived from the verb 'congredi' (to come together). The second element, 'woman', has Germanic roots, originating from Old English 'wīfmann', literally meaning "wife-person" or "female human." The compound logically and transparently denotes a female member of the congressional assembly, following the pattern of many English agent nouns that specify gender, such as 'chairwoman' or 'spokeswoman'.
Analysis
congress: From Latin 'congressus' (a meeting, assembly), from 'congredi' (to meet, come together). Functions as the core noun denoting the legislative body. woman: From Old English 'wīfmann' (female human), from 'wīf' (woman, wife) + 'mann' (human being, person). Functions as a noun specifying gender.