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can·vass

(kănvəs)

v. can·vassed, can·vass·ing, can·vass·es

v.tr.

1. To examine carefully or discuss thoroughly; scrutinize: "The evidence had been repeatedly canvassed in American courts" (Anthony Lewis).

a. To go through (a region) or go to (persons) to solicit votes or orders.

b. To conduct a survey of (public opinion); poll.

v.intr.

1. To make a thorough examination or conduct a detailed discussion.

2. To solicit voters, orders, or opinions.

1. An examination or discussion.

2. A solicitation of votes or orders.

3. A survey of public opinion.

[From obsolete canvass, to toss in a canvas sheet as punishment, from CANVAS.]

canvass·er n.

Indo-European & Semitic Roots Appendices

Thousands of entries in the dictionary include etymologies that trace their origins back to reconstructed proto-languages. You can obtain more information about these forms in our online appendices:

Indo-European Roots

Semitic Roots

The Indo-European appendix covers nearly half of the Indo-European roots that have left their mark on English words. A more complete treatment of Indo-European roots and the English words derived from them is available in our Dictionary of Indo-European Roots.

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