write-in

[ rahyt-in ]

noun

1. a candidate or vote for a candidate not listed on the printed ballot but written onto it by the voter:

   Write-ins may swing the election.

adjective

1. of, relating to, or for such a candidate or vote or a ballot so marked:

   a write-in campaign.

write in

verb

1. to insert in (a document, form, etc) in writing
2. adverb to write a letter to a company, institution, etc
3. adverb
   1. to vote for (a person not on a ballot) by writing in his name
   2. to cast (a vote) for such a person by writing in his name

noun

1. the act of voting for a person by writing his name on a ballot
2. a candidate or vote that has been written in
3. ( as modifier )

   a write-in campaign

Word History and Origins

Origin of write-in¹

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

By the end of the presidential primary races in June, the movement had amassed over 750,000 "uncommitted," "uninstructed" or "no preference" votes, including write-in and blank-ballot protests in states without such options.

From Salon

It was a write-in, as Martínez’s name was not on the ballot.

From Los Angeles Times

It quickly became the target of a massive write-in campaign protesting such candid talk about sex on television; the show was canceled after 14 weeks.

From Los Angeles Times

In 2016, while a member of Congress, Reichert called Trump’s candidacy “a joke” and declined to endorse or vote for him, saying he cast a write-in vote for Mike Pence, then Trump’s vice-presidential running mate.

From Seattle Times

In Montana, write-in candidates must file with the state before the election.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• copy
• document
• file
• list
• log
• mark
• post
• register
• report
• videotape