referendum

[ ref-uh-ren-duhm ]

noun

, plural ref·er·en·dums, ref·er·en·da [ref-, uh, -, ren, -d, uh].

1. the principle or practice of referring measures proposed or passed by a legislative body, head of state, etc., to the vote of the electorate for approval or rejection. Compare initiative ( def 4a ).
2. a measure thus referred.
3. a vote on such a measure.

referendum

/ ˌrɛfəˈrɛndəm /

noun

1. submission of an issue of public importance to the direct vote of the electorate
2. a vote on such a measure
3. a poll of the members of a club, union, or other group to determine their views on some matter
4. a diplomatic official's note to his government requesting instructions

referendum

¹

1. A direct popular vote on an issue of public policy, such as a proposed amendment to a state constitution or a proposed law. Referendums, which allow the general population to participate in policymaking, are not used at the national level, but are common at the state and local levels. A referendum is often used to gauge popular approval or rejection of laws recently passed or under consideration by a state legislature. A referendum can also be used to initiate legislative action.

referendum

²

1. A vote by the general public, rather than by governmental bodies, on a bill or some other important issue; a plebiscite . ( See under “American Politics.” )

Word History and Origins

Origin of referendum¹

1840–50; < Latin: “(thing) to be referred” (neuter gerundive of referre “to bring back”; refer )

Word History and Origins

Origin of referendum¹

C19: from Latin: something to be carried back, from referre to refer

Example Sentences

Councils who want to increase bills above this level must get permission from the government or hold a referendum.

From BBC

This 2024 election is a referendum on the character of the Trump-voting public, and let’s not make it nice.

From Salon

In the most basic sense, the 2024 election can be understood as a referendum on the direction of America and the future of pluralistic multiracial democracy.

From Salon

On the council tax cap, which prevents local councils from increasing tax by more than 5% without a local referendum, Sir Keir said Badenoch "knows what the arrangements are".

From BBC

I'm not sure if the election and Trump’s victory were more of a referendum on the character of the American people or on the public's faith in government.

From Salon

Related Words

• election
• poll
• vote