Canvass Definition
kănvəs
canvasses
verb
canvasses
To examine or discuss in detail; look over carefully.
Webster's New World
To try to get votes, orders, etc.; solicit.
Webster's New World
To conduct a survey of (public opinion); poll.
American Heritage
To go through (places) or among (people) asking for (votes, opinions, orders, etc.)
Webster's New World
To make a thorough examination or conduct a detailed discussion.
American Heritage
Synonyms:
Advertisement
noun
The act of canvassing, esp. in an attempt to estimate the outcome of an election, sales campaign, etc.
Webster's New World
An examination or discussion.
American Heritage
A solicitation of votes or orders.
American Heritage
A survey of public opinion.
American Heritage
Synonyms:
- canvas
- public-opinion poll
- opinion-poll
- poll
- sheet
- sail
- canvas tent
- questionary
Origin of Canvass
From obsolete canvass to toss in a canvas sheet as punishment from canvas
From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition
-
From canvas, originally meaning "to toss in a canvas sheet". First attested 1508
From Wiktionary
Advertisement
Canvass Is Also Mentioned In
Find Similar Words
Find similar words to canvass using the buttons below.