Definition of the word state house

The term "state house" initially referred to the official residence of the British monarch outside of London. The phrase "state" in this context meant "royal," or pertaining to the monarch and their duties. In colonial America, when state governments began to form, the legislative bodies created their own buildings to house government operations. The central building of a capital city often served as the home for the governor and other high-ranking officials of the state. Following the traditional usage of "state house" for a monarch's residence, these buildings in America were also called state houses. Today, the term "state house" is still used in many states, although some have chosen to rename their government buildings more specifically. "State capitol" is a more common term, as it distinguishes a state's legislative and government functions from the residence of the governor, which is usually called the "governor's mansion" or "executive mansion." A few states, such as Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, still call their state government building a "state house." In these states, the focus on the residential aspect seems to prioritize the importance of the governor's role in the state's governance rather than the legislative functions that take place within the building. However, the exact origin and evolution of the term "state house" in each American state might vary, as the phrase "state house" became established in lieu of other monikers such as "state hall" or "capitol building" either by custom or legislative action.