as in vote
an event in which the electorate votes for or against a law that deals with a specific issue
They are having a referendum so the public can decide the controversial issue.
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of referendum
In 1933, a national referendum resulted in the passage of the 21st amendment, which repealed prohibition.
—
Arkansas Online, 10 May 2025
The panel may consider adding new homestead exemptions and requiring every municipality to hold separate voter referendums on their property tax rates — or other ideas.
—Ryan Gillespie, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 May 2025
The choice could be something of a referendum on the progressive policies of Pope Francis, but primarily the conclave is seeking a pope who will unite the church, preach peace and serve as both a pastor and teacher.
—Theresa Braine, New York Daily News, 6 May 2025
Ewing criticized Stothert’s support for President Donald Trump and turning the local race into a referendum on the national Republican platform.
—Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 15 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for referendum
Arkansas Online, 10 May 2025
The panel may consider adding new homestead exemptions and requiring every municipality to hold separate voter referendums on their property tax rates — or other ideas.
—Ryan Gillespie, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 May 2025
The choice could be something of a referendum on the progressive policies of Pope Francis, but primarily the conclave is seeking a pope who will unite the church, preach peace and serve as both a pastor and teacher.
—Theresa Braine, New York Daily News, 6 May 2025
Ewing criticized Stothert’s support for President Donald Trump and turning the local race into a referendum on the national Republican platform.
—Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 15 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for referendum
Recent Examples of Synonyms for referendum
Noun
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The bill passed in the House by just one vote on May 22.—
Savannah Kuchar,
USA Today,
26 May 2025
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Kansas Supreme Court justices stand for retention votes every six years.—
Matthew Kelly,
Kansas City Star,
25 May 2025
Noun
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Three states, Colorado, Maine and Illinois, unsuccessfully attempted to remove Trump from the ballot based on his actions surrounding the Jan. 6 Capitol riot.—
Ariel Sheinberg,
Baltimore Sun,
26 May 2025
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The lawsuit accuses Mayor Todd Gloria and others of violating Proposition 218, a ballot measure passed some 30 years ago that prohibits government agencies from charging more for services than the actual cost of delivering those services.—
Inga,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
26 May 2025
Cite this Entry
“Referendum.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/referendum. Accessed 5 Jun. 2025.
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