referendum

American  

[ref-uh-ren-duhm] / ˌrɛf əˈrɛn dəm /

noun

plural

referendums, referenda

1. the principle or practice of referring measures proposed or passed by a legislative body, head of state, etc., to the vote of the electorate for approval or rejection.

2. a measure thus referred.

3. a vote on such a measure.

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referendum British  

/ ˌrɛfəˈrɛndəm /

noun

1. submission of an issue of public importance to the direct vote of the electorate

2. a vote on such a measure

3. a poll of the members of a club, union, or other group to determine their views on some matter

4. a diplomatic official's note to his government requesting instructions

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referendum ¹ Cultural  

1. A vote by the general public, rather than by governmental bodies, on a bill or some other important issue; a plebiscite. (See under “American Politics.”)

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referendum ² Cultural  

1. A direct popular vote on an issue of public policy, such as a proposed amendment to a state constitution or a proposed law. Referendums, which allow the general population to participate in policymaking, are not used at the national level, but are common at the state and local levels. A referendum is often used to gauge popular approval or rejection of laws recently passed or under consideration by a state legislature. A referendum can also be used to initiate legislative action.

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Etymology

Origin of referendum

1840–50; < Latin: “(thing) to be referred” (neuter gerundive of referre “to bring back”; refer )

Example Sentences

Meanwhile, Findlay said "never again" to the question of another referendum.

From BBC

Meanwhile, local opponents have gathered enough signatures for a referendum—in the November election—that would repeal the zoning change.

From The Wall Street Journal

And that may determine whether John Swinney can deliver another 2021 pledge which is sure to carry over into this year's manifesto - to hold a referendum on Scottish independence.

From BBC

“Today’s verdict is a referendum—from a jury, to an entire industry—that accountability has arrived.”

From The Wall Street Journal

When the two-day referendum ended on Monday afternoon, exit polls initially showed the "No" vote leading by a small margin, but that grew to a substantial lead as the count progressed.

From BBC

Related Words

• election
• poll
• vote