1. A member of a legislature, especially the British Parliament, who does not hold a senior position in the government or opposition leadership.
Usage: chiefly British; often used in parliamentary contexts

Examples

• Most backbenchers have little influence over party policy.
• The backbencher raised concerns about the bill during the debate.
• Several backbenchers broke ranks and voted against their party.
• As a junior backbencher, she hoped to eventually move to the front bench.
• Backbenchers often represent their constituents' interests in Parliament.
• The government struggled to keep its backbenchers in line on the controversial vote.