absolute majority

American  

noun

1. a number of votes constituting more than half of the number cast.

2. a number of voters constituting more than half of the number registered.

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absolute majority British  

noun

1. a number of votes totalling over 50 per cent, such as the total number of votes or seats obtained by a party that beats the combined opposition Compare relative majority

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Example Sentences

But while the PP came out ahead with 53 seats, that is down from 58 in 2022 and below the 55 needed for an absolute majority in the assembly to govern alone.

From Barron's • May 18, 2026

No party grouping has enough seats to make up the 289 required for an absolute majority in the 577-seat National Assembly.

From BBC • Aug. 23, 2024

Unlike in many Latin American nations, there is no second round in Mexican elections: Whoever receives a plurality of votes is declared the winner, whether or not he or she garners an absolute majority.

From Los Angeles Times • May 30, 2024

A total of nine parties are running and no single one is expected to come close to winning enough votes to reach the absolute majority of 68 seats in the chamber.

From Seattle Times • May 11, 2024

Voting is by secret ballot, and an absolute majority of all votes cast is necessary for a choice.

From The Governments of Europe by Ogg, Frederic Austin