What does the term "impeachment" refer to?

The term "impeachment" specifically refers to the process by which a legislative body, typically Congress in the United States, brings formal charges against a government official. This process is a constitutional mechanism intended to hold officials accountable for misconduct or violations of the law. Impeachment does not immediately result in removal; it is the first step in a multi-stage procedure that may lead to removal from office if the official is found guilty of the charges during a trial, which is conducted by the Senate.

The term encompasses the idea of accountability and checks and balances inherent in the governmental system, ensuring that no official is above the law. Once the House of Representatives votes to impeach, the Senate conducts a trial to determine whether to convict and remove the official from office.

This understanding clarifies that impeachment is about initiating charges rather than the instantaneous removal of someone from office or any other unrelated actions, such as issuing formal apologies or conducting elections. Hence, the definition encapsulated in the correct answer accurately reflects the constitutional process.