vote  (vōt) 
n. A formal expression of preference for a candidate for office or for a proposed resolution of an issue. A means by which such a preference is made known, such as a raised hand or a marked ballot.
The number of votes cast in an election or to resolve an issue: a heavy vote in favor of the bill. A group of voters alike in some way: the Black vote; the rural vote. The act or process of voting: took a vote on the issue. The result of an election or referendum. The right to participate as a voter; suffrage.
v.
vot·ed, vot·ing, votes
v.
intr.
To express one's preference for a candidate or for a proposed resolution of an issue; cast a vote: voting against the measure. To express a choice or an opinion.
v.
tr.
To express one's preference for by vote: voted the straight Republican ticket. To decide the disposition of by vote, as by electing or defeating: vote in a new mayor; voted out their representative; vote down the amendment. To bring into existence or make available by vote: vote new funds for a program. To be guided by in voting: vote one's conscience. To declare or pronounce by general consent: voted the play a success. Informal To state as a preference or opinion: I vote we eat out tonight.
[Middle English, vow, from Latin vōtum, from neuter past participle of vovēre, to vow.]
vot'a·ble, vote'a·ble adj. |
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