referendum

The word “referendum” means a public vote in which citizens directly decide on a specific law or issue. In plain terms, a direct vote by the public on one specific question, rather than through elected representatives.

“Referendum” is pronounced reh-fuh-REHN-duhm (/ˌɹɛfəˈɹɛndəm/ in IPA).

Here is “referendum” used in a sentence: “The country held a referendum on joining the trade union.”

“Referendum” is a noun.

The word “referendum” comes from Latin. From Latin referendum, literally "that which must be brought back [to the people]," from refero ("to announce").

“Referendum” is a fairly common word in modern English.

Both plurals are accepted. Referendums is now the more common choice in general and journalistic writing, while referenda, the Latin plural, persists in formal and academic contexts. Many style guides recommend referendums.

In an election, voters choose people to represent them, such as lawmakers or a president. In a referendum, citizens vote directly on a specific law or issue, bypassing representatives. Elections fill offices; referendums settle questions.

Both words describe a public vote on a specific issue, and in many countries they are used interchangeably. Where a distinction is drawn, plebiscite often refers to a non-binding or advisory vote, while referendum tends to describe a vote with direct legal effect. Exact usage varies from country to country.

The standard collocation is to hold a referendum; governments can also call a referendum, meaning to announce that one will take place. "Make a referendum" is not idiomatic English.