Modern Usage
The term became obsolete in the later Reform Act of 1884, but is still used colloquially to refer to Members of Parliament who represent rural, or 'county' constituencies. With exceptions, they tend towards conservatism rather than radicalism.
Read more about this topic: Knights Of The Shire
Famous quotes containing the words modern and/or usage:
“He was naturally so sensitive, and so kind. But he had the insidious modern disease of tolerance. He must tolerate everything, even a thing that revolted him.”
—D.H. (David Herbert)
“Girls who put out are tramps. Girls who don’t are ladies. This is, however, a rather archaic usage of the word. Should one of you boys happen upon a girl who doesn’t put out, do not jump to the conclusion that you have found a lady. What you have probably found is a lesbian.”
—Fran Lebowitz (b. 1951)