Ballot Meaning

UK /ˈbælət/
US /ˈbælət/
Word Definition
ballot meaning

Ballot Definition & Usage

noun

A process of voting, especially in an election, or a piece of paper used in this process.

Examples

  • "The candidates were determined by a ballot at the end of the meeting."
  • "He cast his ballot for the mayoral candidate he thought would make the biggest change."
  • "The ballot results were announced on the evening news."
  • "After long hours of campaigning, they finally received the results of the ballot."
  • "Each voter placed their ballot into the secure box to ensure fair voting."
noun

A method for determining a choice or decision, often by voting.

Examples

  • "The committee decided to resolve the matter through a ballot vote."
  • "When deciding on the company picnic location, we used a simple ballot."
  • "The group chose to settle the argument by ballot rather than debate."
  • "In the meeting, the CEO asked for a ballot to decide the new project direction."
  • "To resolve the dispute, the board members submitted their decisions on a secret ballot."
verb

To vote or select someone or something by means of a ballot.

Examples

  • "Voters will ballot on the proposed amendments next week."
  • "The members balloted for the new president during the annual conference."
  • "Each student was asked to ballot for their favorite class president candidate."
  • "They balloted on the issue of whether to approve the new policy."
  • "The board decided to ballot anonymously on the new initiative."

Cultural Context

The word 'ballot' has its roots in Italian and French, where it referred to a small ball used for voting. Over time, this evolved to describe the written form of voting or the entire process. It has been crucial in various democratic and non-democratic settings, particularly in elections and decision-making processes.

The Great Election

Story

The Great Election

In a small town, the local community center was packed with people anxiously awaiting the results of a contentious election. It was the day of the annual town vote, and the issue on the ballot was crucial to the future of the town's historic district. Candidates had campaigned vigorously, and the community was divided. Sarah, a long-time resident and the head of the historic preservation committee, had spent weeks educating the public about the importance of preserving the district. On the other side, Tom, a developer who saw the potential for new buildings in the area, was equally passionate about his vision for the future. As the ballots were cast and collected, the room fell silent. The tension was palpable as the results were tallied. Sarah’s supporters waited nervously, hoping the ballot results would favor their cause. When the final tally came in, it was clear – the historic district would be preserved. The community celebrated, knowing that their collective voice had been heard through the power of the ballot. Yet, Tom wasn’t defeated. He had already planned his next campaign and was ready to ballot for a new direction in the future of the town. The election wasn’t over, but the people had spoken – for now.

The Great Election