Definition of "canvass" in English

verb

1. To thoroughly examine or investigate (something) physically or by discussion; to debate, to gather opinion, to scrutinize.

2. To scrutinize (the ballot in an election or the votes cast) and reject irregular votes; also, to challenge or dispute (an election result).

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. To toss (someone) in a (canvas) sheet for fun or as a punishment; to blanket.

6. To batter, beat, or thrash (someone or something).

7. To assail or attack (someone or something).

8. To severely criticize (a person, a written work, etc.).

9. To debate, to discuss.

10. To seek or solicit donations, information, opinions, support, etc.; to conduct a survey.

11. To seek the support of voters or a constituency in a forthcoming election or poll; to campaign.

noun

1. (countable) A seeking or solicitation of donations, information, opinions, support, etc.

2. (countable, specifically, politics) A seeking or solicitation, or determination, of support or favourable votes in a forthcoming election or poll.

3. (countable, US, politics) A scrutiny of the votes cast in an election to reject irregular votes; also, a tally, audit, and certification of votes.

4. A thorough discussion or investigation. (Possibly; the meaning is unclear.)

5. Rejection (at an election, of a suit, etc.).

noun

1. Obsolete spelling of canvas.