What is the definition of "parliament"?

The American Heritage Dictionary defines "parliament" as "a representative body having supreme legislative powers within a state or multinational organization." "Parliament" - with the first letter capitalized - is the highest legislature of the United Kingdom, consisting of the sovereign, the House of Lords and the House of Commons.

The most common meaning of "parliament" refers to a country's legislative, elected body of government. The United Kingdom is a typical example. Parliament is the equivalent of Congress in the United States. The word is derived from the French verb "parler," which means "to speak." This makes sense, as parliaments assemble to talk about laws and issues.