Definition

A permanent committee in some socialist countries that has the authority to make decisions and act on behalf of a larger legislative body when it is not meeting.

Example

The praesidium made important decisions during the legislative recess.

Conversation

Did you know that a praesidium can act on behalf of a legislative body?

Really? I had no idea such a thing existed.

Yeah, it's interesting how different systems operate.

It makes me curious about how decisions are made in those countries.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Praesidium is derived from the Latin root "praesid-" (meaning to sit before or to protect) and the suffix "-ium" (a common Latin suffix used to form nouns). The word "praesidium" refers to a place of protection or defense, often used in a military context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sitting before' ('praesid-') as providing protection, which helps you remember that 'praesidium' means a place of defense or protection.

Visually Confused Words