Definition of "ballot" in English

noun

1. (originally) A small ball placed in a container to cast a vote; now, by extension, a piece of paper or card used for this purpose, or some other means used to signify a vote.

2. The process of voting, especially in secret; a round of voting.

   • July 1836, A. B. (initials of author), London and Westminster Review Article XI, Bribery and Intimidation at Elections the insufficiency of the ballot

3. The total of all the votes cast in an election.

4. (chiefly US) A list of candidates running for office; a ticket.

verb

1. (intransitive) To vote or decide by ballot.

   • to ballot for a candidate

2. (intransitive) To draw lots.

3. (transitive) To invite to vote on a proposal.

   • The trade union balloted its members for strike action.