Plebiscite

Quick meaning: Plebiscite is a noun meaning (by extension) An expression of the public's views on an issue, whether legally binding or not.

Meaning

(by extension) An expression of the public's views on an issue, whether legally binding or not.

More Meanings

1. (law, politics) A direct popular vote on an issue of public importance, such as an amendment to the constitution, a change in the sovereignty of the nation, or some government policy.
2. (Ancient Rome, historical) Synonym of plebiscitum (“a law enacted by the common people, under the superintendence of a tribune or some subordinate plebeian magistrate, without the intervention of the senate”).

Example Sentences

A political result, we may also say aim, of the frumentarian plebiscite of Gaius was to disattach the city populace from its conservative moorings and to enlist it in the service of reform.

Then something changed, and Mr. Mitterrand said he thought it would be a good idea if the Constitution allowed plebiscites, on the recommendation of the President, on issues involving personal freedoms.

Word Forms

• plebiscites

Synonyms for plebiscite

Depending on context, synonyms include referendum, plebiscitum.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include referendum, ballot, vote, polling, poll, voting.

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