suffrage

[ suhf-rij ]

noun

1. the right to vote, especially in a political election.
2. a vote given in favor of a proposed measure, candidate, or the like.
3. Ecclesiastical. a prayer, especially a short intercessory prayer or petition.

suffrage

/ ˈsʌfrɪdʒ /

noun

1. the right to vote, esp in public elections; franchise
2. the exercise of such a right; casting a vote
3. a supporting vote
4. a prayer, esp a short intercessory prayer

suffrage

1. The right to vote ( see franchise ). In the United States, the term is often associated with the women's movement to win voting rights. ( See suffragist .)

Other Words From

• an·ti·suf·frage adjective
• non·suf·frage noun
• pre·suf·frage noun
• pro·suf·frage adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of suffrage¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Old French, from Latin suffrāgium “voting tablet, a vote cast in an assembly (for a law or candidate), an act of voting or the exercise of the right to vote, the decision reached by a vote, an expression of approval, influence or promotion on behalf of a candidate,” equivalent to Latin suffrāg(ārī) “to express public support, vote or canvass for, support” + -ium noun suffix; -ium

Word History and Origins

Origin of suffrage¹

C14: from Latin suffrāgium

Example Sentences

In a first for California, teens in two Alameda County school districts, Berkeley and Oakland, were granted suffrage in school board races for the first time this November.

From Los Angeles Times

In the Bay Area, voters in Albany will vote Tuesday on a measure to grant suffrage to 16- and 17-year-olds.

From Los Angeles Times

The first place in California to authorize youth suffrage was Berkeley, where in 2016 more than 70% of voters approved a measure allowing students to have a voice in school board races.

From Los Angeles Times

Woven into these attacks on "single issue" female voters is an unsubtle loathing of women's suffrage.

From Salon

So while the Board of Parole may grant clemency, the Legislature holds primary authority for determining how the whole range of civil rights, including suffrage, are restored.

From Slate