A male member of a Congress, especially the U.S. House of Representatives; an elected official who represents a district or region in government.
Compound of 'congress' (from Latin 'congressus,' a meeting) and 'man.' The term has been used in American government since the founding of the republic.
Congressmen represent about 760,000 people each, making the U.S. House the most powerful legislature per representative in the world, but many democracies have districts 5-10 times smaller for better representation.
Congressman defaults masculine despite mixed-gender legislatures. 'Congresswoman' emerged in 19th century as correction, but generic usage still assumes male.
Use 'congressperson' or 'member of Congress' for neutral reference; specify 'congresswoman' or 'congressman' only if gender is relevant context.
["congressperson","member of Congress","legislator","representative"]
Women have served in Congress since 1916 (Jeannette Rankin). Generic masculine language historically erased their presence and legitimacy.
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