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(), n.; pl. Congresses (). [L. congressus, fr. congredi, p. p. -gressus, to go or come together; con- + grati to go or step, gradus step: cf. F. congrs. See Grade.] 1. A meeting of individuals, whether friendly or hostile; an encounter. [Obs.] Here Pallas urges on, and Lausus there; Their congress in the field great Jove withstands. Dryden. 2. A sudden encounter; a collision; a shock; -- said of things. [Obs.] From these laws may be deduced the rules of the congresses and reflections of two bodies. Cheyne. 3. The coming together of a male and female in sexual commerce; the act of coition. Pennant. 4. A gathering or assembly; a conference. 5. A formal assembly, as of princes, deputies, representatives, envoys, or commissioners; esp., a meeting of the representatives of several governments or societies to consider and determine matters of common interest. The European powers strove to . . . accommodate their differences at the congress of Vienna. Alison. 6. The collective body of スポンサード リンク
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