canvass
11 synonyms and 0 antonyms for canvass, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To go around asking people for their opinions, support, or votes.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use canvass
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
Derived from "canvas" (the cloth) — originally meaning to toss someone in a canvas sheet, which extended over time to mean thoroughly testing or examining, and eventually came to mean seeking political support.
Full origin of canvass →Frequently asked questions
What does “canvass” mean?
The word “canvass” means to go around asking people for their opinions, support, or votes. In plain terms, to go door-to-door or ask around gathering opinions, support, or votes.
How do you pronounce “canvass”?
“Canvass” is pronounced KAN-vuhs (/ˈkænvəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “canvass” in a sentence?
Here is “canvass” used in a sentence: “Volunteers canvassed the neighborhood before the election.”
What part of speech is “canvass”?
Depending on how it is used, “canvass” can be a verb and a noun.
How many meanings does “canvass” have?
“Canvass” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to go around asking people for their opinions, support, or votes.