Meaning & Definition of word "Ballot"

Ballot

/ˈbæl.ət/

noun:

  • 1. A process of voting, in writing and typically in secret, especially in a political election.
    • Example: The committee members cast their ballot to decide the next chairperson.
  • 2. A piece of paper or card used to cast a vote.
    • Example: Voters are asked to fill out their ballot and then place it in the box.
  • 3. The total number of votes cast in an election.
    • Example: The ballot showed a significant majority for the proposed measure.

verb:

  • 1. To vote, especially in a secret manner.
    • Example: The residents will ballot on the new zoning regulations next week.

Etymology

From Middle French 'ballotte', meaning a small ball used for voting.

Common Phrases and Expressions

ballot box:

A sealed container in which votes are placed during an election.

on the ballot:

A phrase indicating that a candidate or issue is officially included for voting.

cast a ballot:

To submit a vote in an election.

Related Words

voting:

The action of making a choice in an election.

election:

A formal decision-making process by which a population elects an individual to hold public office.

polling:

The process of surveying or voting.

Slang Meanings of ballot

Meaning: To ballot in a casual or informal way.

Example Sentence: Let's ballot it out rather than discuss it endlessly.