Dictionary entries for 'vote'

Synonyms

vote (vōt)

[Middle English, vow, from Latin vōtum from neuter past participle of vovēre, to vow.]

noun

1. A formal expression of preference for a candidate for office or for a proposed resolution of an issue.
2. 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.

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.

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.

vote with (one's) feet: To indicate a preference or an opinion by leaving or entering a particular locale: “If older cities are allowed to decay and contract, can citizens who vote with their feet … hope to find better conditions anywhere else?” (Melinda Beck)