caucus

IPA

Dictionary definition of caucus

A meeting of members of a political party or organization, typically held before an election, to select candidates, plan strategy, or make decisions.
"She attended the caucus to support her preferred candidate."

Detailed meaning of caucus

The term is most commonly associated with the United States, where it is used to describe the process by which the members of a political party in a state or district gather to select delegates to the party's national convention, where the presidential nominee is chosen.
Caucuses can be open or closed, meaning that anyone can participate or only registered members of the political party can participate. The process of a caucus can vary depending on the state or political party, but it typically involves a series of speeches, discussions, and voting, with the goal of selecting a preferred candidate or making a decision on party strategy or platform.
Caucuses can also be used in other organizations, such as labor unions, where members gather to discuss and make decisions on issues related to their organization. The term "caucus" can also be used as a verb, meaning the act of gathering in a caucus.

Example sentences containing caucus

1. The party held a caucus to select their nominee for the presidential election.
2. She attended the caucus to support her preferred candidate.
3. The group held a caucus to discuss their next steps.
4. He was elected as the leader of the caucus.
5. She was a member of the minority caucus in the legislature.
6. The labor union held a caucus to negotiate their contract.

History and etymology of caucus

The noun 'caucus' has its etymological origins in Algonquian, an indigenous language of North America. It was adopted into English in the 18th century, particularly in the United States. The term originally referred to a gathering of tribal leaders or community members to discuss matters of importance and make decisions collectively. Over time, it evolved to describe political meetings within a political party or organization, typically held before an election. In these caucuses, members come together to select candidates, plan strategy, or make decisions that can influence the party's direction. The etymology of 'caucus' reflects its historical connection to the practice of group decision-making, whether in indigenous communities or political organizations, emphasizing the collaborative and deliberative nature of these gatherings.

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Further usage examples of caucus

1. He was a member of the conservative caucus in the Congress.
2. She participated in the women's caucus at the conference.
3. The staff held a caucus to address the recent changes in the company.
4. He was a member of the progressive caucus in the legislature.
5. She was elected as the chair of the caucus.
6. The company held a caucus to discuss the new business strategy.
7. They gathered to discuss campaign strategies for the upcoming election.
8. Party members convened to nominate their candidate.
9. Leaders were chosen during the meeting to steer the organization.
10. Heated debates unfolded as members discussed the party's platform.
11. Voters from diverse backgrounds participated in the presidential event.
12. Important policy positions were decided at the gathering.
13. Selecting the candidate was the primary goal of the event.
14. Grassroots activists found a voice at the well-attended meeting.
15. A seasoned senator skillfully led the gathering.
16. Spirited debates resonated among the attendees.
17. The historical significance of the event was not lost on anyone.
18. The meeting's outcomes set the tone for the upcoming convention.
19. Policy discussions were at the forefront of the event.
20. Fundraising strategies were among the topics of conversation.
21. Media outlets covered the event due to its significance.
22. The event showcased a diverse range of voices.
23. A turning point in the campaign emerged from the gathering.
24. Concerns were raised and addressed during the meeting.
25. Consensus on key issues was reached through dialogue.
26. The event played a pivotal role in the political process.