a. [f. L. congressiōn-em CONGRESSION + -AL. It takes the place of a derivative of congressus CONGRESS.]
1. Of or pertaining to a congress.
a. 1691. Bp. T. Barlow (Webster, 1828). The congressional institution of Amphictyons in Greece.
2. spec. Of or pertaining to a legislative Congress, as of the United States, and other American republics.
1796. Morse, Amer. Geog., I. 320. The congressional acts in favour of the officers.
1808. Ann. Reg., 365. One of the best fought battles recorded in the annals of congressional pugilism.
1864. Century Mag., Sept. (1889), 703/1. The citizens of my congressional district.
1884. Harpers Mag., June, 128/2. The Presidential candidates were nominated by Congressional caucus.
1891. Daily News, 28 April, 5/6. Particulars of the blowing up of the BlancoEncalada received through Chilian Congressional sources.