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canvass

Pronunciation: /ˈkanvəs/

Translate canvass | into French | into German | into Italian | into Spanish
Definition of canvass

verb

[with object]
  • 1solicit votes from (electors or members):in each ward, two workers canvassed some 2,000 voters [no object]:he’s canvassing for the Green Party
  • try to obtain (support):they’re canvassing support among shareholders
  • question (someone) in order to ascertain their opinion:they promised to canvass all member clubs for their views
  • 2propose (an idea or plan) for discussion:early retirement was canvassed as a solution to the problem of unemployment
  • discuss thoroughly:the issues that were canvassed are still unresolved

noun

  • an act of canvassing:a house-to-house canvass

Derivatives

canvasser

noun

Origin:

early 16th century (in the sense 'toss in a canvas sheet' (as a sport or punishment)): from canvas. Later extended senses include 'criticize, discuss' (mid 16th century) and 'propose for discussion'; hence 'seek support for'

canvass in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of canvass in the US English dictionary