How do you use the word "ballot" in a sentence?

Here are real-life examples of using "ballot": International observers counted up the ballot. Tom is filling out a ballot.

Ballot Meaning

/ˈbælət/

Definition, CEFR level C1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.

Definition

nounA 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.

nounThe process of voting, especially in secret; a round of voting.

Sentence Examples

International observers counted up the ballot.

Tom is filling out a ballot.

The chairperson is chosen by secret ballot.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms:

vote

Antonyms:

None

CEFR Practice Quiz

Each citizen filled out a paper ____ and placed it in the box.

CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)

Please mark your choice on the ____ and put it into the wooden box.

Word Origin & History

Borrowed from Italian balota (obsolete), ballotta (“small ball, especially one used to register a vote”), from balla (“bale, bundle”) + -otta (suffix forming diminutive nouns); or from Middle French balote (obsolete), ballotte (“small ball used to register a vote”) (also compare Middle French balotiage, French ballottage (“second ballot, runoff”)); both ultimately from Proto-West Germanic *ballu (“ball”), from Proto-Germanic *balluz (“ball”).

Literary Quotations & Historical Citations

"Imagine if the outcome in Michigan is close, and 75% of Biden supporters vote absentee, yet 10% or more of those ballots are rejected." — 2020 September 14, Richard H. Pildes, “The three words that can avert an election nightmare”, in CNN:

"In Wyoming, a GOP state senator forwarded an FGA draft bill to Secretary of State Chuck Gray that would prohibit sending out unsolicited absentee ballot request forms." — 2024 March 17, Daniel Medina and Bob Ortega, “Emails show how a right-wing group steers GOP leaders on major policy issues”, in CNN:

"In the TSSA ballot, 80% of management grade and 60% of general grade members voted to accept, on an overall turnout of 57%." — 2023 March 9, Mel Holley, “TSSA accepts offer, but RMT sets new strike dates”, in RAIL, number 978, page 11:

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