casting vote

American  

noun

1. the deciding vote of the presiding officer of a deliberative body, made when the other votes are equally divided.

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casting vote British  

noun

1. the deciding vote used by the presiding officer of an assembly when votes cast on both sides are equal in number

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Etymology

Origin of casting vote

First recorded in 1685–95

Example Sentences

Analysts therefore expect another tight 5-4 vote on this decision, with Governor Andrew Bailey having the casting vote.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 12, 2025

The NPS, which approved the merger, held a larger stake in Samsung C&T and was viewed as a casting vote.

From Reuters • Jun. 20, 2023

With her casting vote, Ms. Weldon first chose Mr. Rushdie’s book, then had second thoughts.

From New York Times • Jan. 4, 2023

In the event of the Senate being divided equally between the two parties, Vice-President Kamala Harris has the casting vote.

From BBC • Nov. 13, 2022

In May 1664, Hooke was a candidate for the post of professor of geometry at Gresham College, but lost out on the casting vote of the Lord Mayor.

From "The Scientists" by John Gribbin