straw vote

noun

1. an unofficial vote taken to obtain an indication of the general trend of opinion on a particular issue.

Word History and Origins

Origin of straw vote¹

An Americanism dating back to 1885–90

Idioms and Phrases

Also, straw poll. An unofficial vote or poll indicating how people feel about a candidate or issue. For example, Let's take a straw poll on the bill and see how it fares. This idiom alludes to a straw used to show in what direction the wind blows, in this case the wind of public opinion. O. Henry joked about it in A Ruler of Men (1907): “A straw vote only shows which way the hot air blows.” [c. 1885]

Example Sentences

A straw vote in favor of the Harris group would indicate that the legal issues between Snyder and the NFL have finally been settled.

From Washington Times

Montgomery County Council members took a straw vote in March to restore the funding to begin construction in fiscal 2025, but the final budget will not be approved until May.

From Washington Post

As expected, Mr. Mondale initially raised more money, won more straw votes, did better in all the polls and received more endorsements than his opponents.

From New York Times

The council approved the tunnel funding unanimously in a straw vote.

From Washington Post

The overall winner of the straw vote might be so designated on primary ballots.

From Washington Post