What does "quorum" refer to in parliamentary procedure?

In parliamentary procedure, "quorum" refers to the minimum number of members that must be present at a meeting to conduct business effectively. This concept is essential because it ensures that decisions are made with adequate representation and backing from the group's membership. Without a quorum, any decisions or votes taken may be deemed invalid, as they do not reflect the will of the full assembly.

This definition aligns precisely with the nature of quorum. It is not simply the total number of members attending, which could include those who may not be able to contribute to decision-making. Likewise, while a majority may be needed to pass a motion, this refers to the number of votes rather than the presence of members needed to hold the meeting in the first place. Finally, the number of officers present at a meeting does not encompass the total membership, and thus cannot define quorum. Therefore, understanding quorum is fundamental for ensuring that meetings are conducted with legitimacy and authority.