burgess

/ˈbɜrdʒɪs/
noun
  1. A citizen or inhabitant of a town or borough, especially one with certain rights or privileges.
    • He was proud to be a burgess of the historic borough.
    • The burgesses of the town gathered to discuss the new market regulations.
    • In medieval times, a burgess had the right to vote in town elections.
  2. A member of the legislative body of a town or borough; a representative in the British Parliament from a borough.
    • The burgess spoke passionately about the need for better roads.
    • The burgess presented the petition to Parliament on behalf of his constituents.
    • Each borough elected two burgesses to represent them in the House of Commons.
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