show of hands

noun

1. an indication of approval, disapproval, volunteering, etc., on the part of a group of people, usually made by each assenting person raising a hand.

show of hands

noun

1. the raising of hands to indicate voting for or against a proposition

Word History and Origins

Origin of show of hands¹

First recorded in 1740–50

Idioms and Phrases

An informal vote made by participants holding up one hand each to indicate a choice, as in Let's have a show of hands—how many want the next meeting on a Sunday? [Late 1700s]

Example Sentences

A resolution to approve Reform UK’s new constitution was passed by a show of hands at the party’s conference in Birmingham.

From BBC

“Colonel, we asked for a show of hands, and we’ve decided not to take that hill.”

From Los Angeles Times

All of the candidates, in a show of hands, said they believed Trump was the rightful winner of Georgia’s 16 electoral votes in 2020, despite no reliable evidence to contradict Democrat Joe Biden’s win.

From Seattle Times

Then the judge will excuse any people who indicate by a show of hands that they can’t serve or can’t be fair and impartial, he wrote.

From Seattle Times

Beard also pursued solo work, releasing albums including “Advocate,” “Song of the Sun” and “Show of Hands.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• ballot
• choice
• majority
• poll
• referendum
• tally