election

[ ih-lek-shuhn ]

noun

1. the selection of a person or persons for office by vote:

   In 2018, elections for governors were held in 36 states.

2. the status of being or having been elected:

   his fading chances for election;

   the international coverage of her election.

3. a public vote upon a proposition submitted:

   The official results of today’s election regarding use of public lands will not be reported any earlier than tomorrow.

4. the act of electing:

   There is no evidence to suggest violation of the rules of election.

5. Theology. the choice by God of individuals, as for a particular work or for favor or salvation:

   Election is not a hidden decree, but the decree revealed in Christ.

election

/ ɪˈlɛkʃən /

noun

1. the selection by vote of a person or persons from among candidates for a position, esp a political office
2. a public vote on an official proposition
3. the act or an instance of choosing
4. Christianity
   1. the doctrine of Calvin that God chooses certain individuals for salvation without reference to their faith or works
   2. the doctrine of Arminius and others that God chooses for salvation those who, by grace, persevere in faith and works

Other Words From

• in·ter·e·lec·tion adjective
• non·e·lec·tion noun
• post·e·lec·tion adjective
• re·e·lec·tion noun adjective
• self-e·lec·tion noun
• sub·e·lec·tion noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of election¹

First recorded in 1225–75; from Latin ēlēctiōn- (stem of ēlēctiō ), equivalent to ēlēct(us) ( elect ) + -iōn- noun suffix ( -ion ); replacing Middle English eleccioun, from Anglo-French

Example Sentences

The objective was a future shaped by free elections and a new constitution.

From BBC

That only makes it more important to understand that trend, because it's much bigger than just the 2024 election, momentous as it may have been.

From Salon

The Georgian prime minister had little time for the president or her call for new elections.

From BBC

On the night of Nov. 5, Teresa Sasse and her husband, Scott, had dinner in front of the TV as they settled in to watch the election returns.

From Los Angeles Times

The presidential election showcased the Republican strategy of typecasting California and the Democratic Party as left of most of the country.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• appointment
• ballot
• balloting
• decision
• poll
• primary
• referendum
• selection