election

[ ih-lek-shuhn ]

noun

1. the selection of a person or persons for office by vote:

   In 2018, elections for governors were held in 36 states.

2. the status of being or having been elected:

   his fading chances for election;

   the international coverage of her election.

3. a public vote upon a proposition submitted:

   The official results of today’s election regarding use of public lands will not be reported any earlier than tomorrow.

4. the act of electing:

   There is no evidence to suggest violation of the rules of election.

5. Theology. the choice by God of individuals, as for a particular work or for favor or salvation:

   Election is not a hidden decree, but the decree revealed in Christ.

election

/ ɪˈlɛkʃən /

noun

1. the selection by vote of a person or persons from among candidates for a position, esp a political office
2. a public vote on an official proposition
3. the act or an instance of choosing
4. Christianity
   1. the doctrine of Calvin that God chooses certain individuals for salvation without reference to their faith or works
   2. the doctrine of Arminius and others that God chooses for salvation those who, by grace, persevere in faith and works

Other Words From

• in·ter·e·lec·tion adjective
• non·e·lec·tion noun
• post·e·lec·tion adjective
• re·e·lec·tion noun adjective
• self-e·lec·tion noun
• sub·e·lec·tion noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of election¹

First recorded in 1225–75; from Latin ēlēctiōn- (stem of ēlēctiō ), equivalent to ēlēct(us) ( elect ) + -iōn- noun suffix ( -ion ); replacing Middle English eleccioun, from Anglo-French

Example Sentences

The actor discusses how she was able to tap into the news and the presidential election for her role on the Netflix series, which featured a surprising twist in the Season 2 finale.

From Los Angeles Times

Even before the election, DeGeneres has had a difficult couple of years.

From Salon

Prescott himself said, if he was remembered for just one thing, it would be for his punch during the 2001 general election campaign.

From BBC

Feeling hopeless and overwhelmed can spur you to take action and make some small differences between now and the next election, and fighting a second Trump term with your finances is an option to consider.

From Salon

Just over two weeks ago, he won an election.

From Salon

Related Words

• appointment
• ballot
• balloting
• decision
• poll
• primary
• referendum
• selection