referendum

 
Pronunciation: /ˌrɛfəˈrɛndəm/

noun (plural referendums or referenda /-də/)

  • a general vote by the electorate on a single political question which has been referred to them for a direct decision.

Origin:

mid 19th century: from Latin, gerund ( 'referring') or neuter gerundive ( 'something to be brought back or referred') of referre (see refer)

Spelling help

The plural of referendum can be spelled either referenda (like the original Latin) or referendums.