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 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

The ordinance, which still needs a second reading before finalization, includes where the bikes can be operated, minor safety requirements, equipment requirements and enforcement. —Deborah Laverty, Chicago Tribune, 28 May 2026

According to the township clerk, a second reading and a public hearing to discuss the parking permits is set for next Monday's meeting. —Ryan Hughes, CBS News, 14 Apr. 2026

The salary increase still needs to be finalized with a second reading, slated for April 14. —Corey Schmidt, Sacbee.com, 2 Apr. 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