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

In her push for a "yes" vote in this weekend's constitutional referendum, Italy's prime minister has been reaching for new audiences.

From BBC • Mar. 21, 2026

But as this referendum has become increasingly personalised, she could be facing her first significant defeat.

From BBC • Mar. 21, 2026

The referendum looks at separating the career paths of judges and prosecutors, as well as creating distinct bodies to govern them.

From BBC • Mar. 21, 2026

To boost turnout and support for the referendum, authorities have involved famous athletes and mobilised workers in mining and oil industries -- two important sectors in the Kazakh economy.

From Barron's • Mar. 15, 2026

The suffragists complained that the referendum wasn’t binding, and the antis complained that they were expected to vote in order to show that they didn’t want the vote.

From "Votes for Women!" by Winifred Conkling

Related Words

• election
• poll
• vote