canvass

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can·vass / ˈkanvəs/ • v. 1. [tr.] solicit votes from (electors in a constituency): in each ward, two workers canvassed some 2,000 voters | [intr.] she canvassed for votes. ∎  question (someone) in order to ascertain their opinion on something. ∎  ascertain (someone's opinion) through questioning: opinions on the merger were canvassed. ∎  try to obtain; request: they're canvassing support among shareholders.2. [tr.] (often be canvassed) discuss thoroughly: the issues that were canvassed are still unresolved.• n. [usu. in sing.] an act or process of attempting to secure votes or ascertain opinions: a house-to-house canvass.DERIVATIVES: can·vass·er n.

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