IPSA

Ipsa is a Latin word that functions as a feminine nominative pronoun meaning herself or itself, and as an intensive modifier meaning “the very.” In classical Latin it appears in phrases such as ipsа scientia potestas est, meaning “knowledge itself is power.” The form ipsa also occurs in legal Latin within phrases like res ipsa loquitur, meaning “the thing speaks for itself,” where ipsa contributes the sense of “itself.”

As an acronym, IPSA has several notable uses. The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority is a UK public body established in 2009 to regulate Members of Parliament’ expenses and to oversee related pay and allowances. It operates independently of Parliament, maintains a rules-based expenses system, and publishes reports and guidance for accountability and compliance.

Another prominent use is the International Political Science Association, a global scholarly organization that coordinates political science research, supports teaching and public discourse, and organizes conferences and related publications for researchers and educators in the field.

Other, less common usages exist in various organizations and contexts, so the intended meaning of the acronym IPSA should be determined from surrounding information. In general, the term ipsа functions historically in Latin texts, while IPSA as an acronym denotes distinct institutions in public governance and academic scholarship.