C1nounformal10K+

Senator

UK /["/ˈsenətə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈsenətər/"]/

Definition

a member of a senate

In simple words: A member of a government group that makes laws.

Examples

  • Senator McCarthy
  • She has served as a Democratic senator for North Carolina since 2009.
  • a Republican state senator
  • the former US Senator, James Hurley
  • He was elected senator for Pennsylvania.
  • There was a visit to the area by a delegation of senior US senators.

Usage notes

Used primarily in political contexts. It’s appropriate in discussions about government, politics, and legislation. Not typically used in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'senate-tor' — think of a person who debates in the senate.

Collocations

  • American
  • US
  • Democratic
  • elect
  • elect somebody (as)
  • become
  • senators and congressmen
  • senators and representatives
  • senators on both sides of the aisle

Synonyms

  • lawmaker
  • legislator
  • congressman
  • politician

Antonyms

  • citizen
  • commoner

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'senate' – 'senator' refers to the person, while 'senate' refers to the group.
  • Incorrectly using 'senator' for members of other legislative bodies like the House of Representatives.
  • Using the term without the appropriate title (e.g., 'Senator Smith').