canvass
To thoroughly examine or investigate physically or by discussionTo thoroughly examine or investigate (something) physically or by discussion; to debate, to gather opinion, to scrutinize.
» Nowadays, candidates don't often canvass neighborhoods.
Meaning
11 senses(figuratively, transitive)To thoroughly examine or investigate (something) physically or by discussion; to debate, to gather opinion, to scrutinize.
(Philippines, broadly, figuratively, transitive)To scrutinize (the ballot in an election or the votes cast) and reject irregular votes; also, to challenge or dispute (an election result).
(figuratively, transitive)To seek or solicit donations, information, opinions, support, etc. from (people or a place)
The police are canvassing the neighbourhood for information about the missing child.
get the opinions (of people) by asking specific questions
(figuratively, specifically, transitive)To seek the support of (voters or a constituency) in a forthcoming election or poll through personal solicitation or public addresses.
The electoral candidate canvassed the district for votes.
(intransitive)To debate, to discuss.
(intransitive)To seek or solicit donations, information, opinions, support, etc.; to conduct a survey.
(intransitive, specifically)To seek the support of voters or a constituency in a forthcoming election or poll; to campaign.
solicit votes from potential voters in an electoral campaign
(obsolete, transitive)To toss (someone) in a (canvas) sheet for fun or as a punishment; to blanket.
(broadly, obsolete, transitive)To batter, beat, or thrash (someone or something).
(broadly, obsolete, transitive)To assail or attack (someone or something).
(broadly, obsolete, transitive)To severely criticize (a person, a written work, etc.).
Examples
6 sentencesNowadays, candidates don't often canvass neighborhoods.
I canvassed the whole town for orders.
After a week of canvassing the area, the search was abandoned.
deNachdem man die Gegend eine Woche lang durchkämmt hatte, wurde die Suche aufgegeben.
The police canvassed the area.
They're canvassing for the governor.
Translations
3 languagesOrigin
The verb is derived from canvas (“type of coarse cloth woven from hemp”). The connection bThe verb is derived from canvas (“type of coarse cloth woven from hemp”). The connection between “to toss (someone) in a (canvas) sheet; (by extension) to batter, beat, or thrash (someone or something); etc.” and “to seek the support of voters or a constituency in a forthcoming election or poll” is not entirely clear.
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Forms
canvasses, canvassing, canvassed, canvassedSynonyms
5 synonymsWord family
3 related wordsLessons for this word
3 lessons- A1Present simple — Because it is a verb
- A1Past simple, regular verbs — Because of its past form
- A2Present perfect: introduction — Because of its past participle