noun

referendum

referendum, plebiscite

The country will hold a referendum on the issue.

The country will hold a referendum on the issue.

The referendum result was a surprise to many.

The referendum result was a surprise to many.

((a)) referendum ((on sth.)) a vote on a particular issue They held a referendum on independence.

Synonyms: plebiscite, vote, poll, ballot

From Latin 'referendum', meaning 'that which must be brought back/referred'. A question 'referred' to the people.

A 'referendum' is when a political question is 'referred' to the public for a direct vote.

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