What does the term 'call to order' refer to?

The term 'call to order' specifically refers to the initiation of a meeting by the chair or presiding officer. This action signifies the official start of the meeting, establishing the setting for members to begin their discussions and proceedings. When the chair calls the meeting to order, it indicates that all participants should pay attention and be ready to engage in the agenda items that will follow.

This process is crucial in formal meetings as it ensures that everyone is aware that the meeting has commenced, and it sets the tone for the discussions. The chair typically follows this with an agenda overview, welcoming remarks, or introductory statements.

The other choices do not align with the true meaning of 'call to order.' For example, starting an after-hours gathering involves a social context rather than a formal meeting initiation, ending a meeting is a separate procedural activity, and discussing unfinished business typically happens later in the meeting agenda, not at the beginning.