second reading

noun

1

: the stage in the British legislative process following the first reading and usually providing for debate on the principal features of a bill before its submission to a committee for consideration of details

2

: the stage in the U.S. legislative process that occurs when a bill has been reported back from committee and that provides an opportunity for full debate and amendment before a vote is taken on the question of a third reading

Examples of second reading in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The other would require the home on one lot (and possibly both) follow certain architectural designs to be designated during second reading. — Brian Bell, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2026

Douglas County There will be a second reading on Tuesday afternoon for the operation of these vehicles. — Brian Sherrod, CBS News, 23 June 2026

The measure will come back for a second reading on the regular agenda on June 9’s city council meeting. — Nicole Buss, Sacbee.com, 1 June 2026

The Solana Beach City Council approved a second reading May 27 of an ordinance that outlines the types of structures that are allowed in public spaces used for outdoor dining. — Luke Harold, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1647, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for second reading

• bedding
• dreading
• heading
• shedding
• shredding
• sledding
• spreading
• threading
• treading
• wedding
• beheading
• embedding