referendum
[ ref-uh-ren-duh m ]
/ ˌrɛf əˈrɛn dəm /
noun, plural ref·er·en·dums, ref·er·en·da [ref-uh-ren-duh] /ˌrɛf əˈrɛn də/.
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).
a measure thus referred.
a vote on such a measure.
Origin of referendum
1840–50; < Latin: “(thing) to be referred” (neuter gerundive of
referre “to bring back”; see
refer)
Words nearby referendum
Example sentences from the Web for referendum
British Dictionary definitions for referendum
referendum
/ (ˌrɛfəˈrɛndəm) /
noun plural -dums or -da (-də)
submission of an issue of public importance to the direct vote of the electorate
a vote on such a measure
a poll of the members of a club, union, or other group to determine their views on some matter
a diplomatic official's note to his government requesting instructions
See also (for senses 1, 2)
plebiscite
Word Origin for referendum
C19: from Latin: something to be carried back, from
referre to
refer
Cultural definitions for referendum (1 of 2)
referendum
[ (ref-uh-ren-duhm) ]
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.”)
Cultural definitions for referendum (2 of 2)
referendum
[ (ref-uh-ren-duhm) ]
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.