voice vote

noun

1. a vote based on estimation of the relative strength of ayes and noes called out rather than on a counting of ballots, a roll call, or a division.

voice vote

noun

1. a vote taken in a legislative body by calling for the ayes and the noes and estimating which faction is more numerous from the volume of the noise

Word History and Origins

Origin of voice vote¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

The measure passed on a voice vote with some members voting no, but no recorded vote was requested.

From Washington Post

The House resolution also hit a snag last week when a handful of conservative Republicans planned to demand a roll-call vote on more than a dozen bills that would typically pass quickly by voice vote.

From Washington Post

Following a voice vote, Ellis declared Capital Stonewall Democrats the winner.

From Washington Blade

As in the Senate, the bill passed the House by voice vote, underscoring the bipartisan support for the measure.

From Fortune

Republicans on the Senate Finance Committee actually supported those particular provisions of the ACA on unanimous voice vote.

From The Daily Beast

"M-make it voice vote," Dorothy whispered, and her face was begging: Is it too much?

From Project Gutenberg