referendum

noun

ref·​er·​en·​dum ˌre-fə-ˈren-dəm 

plural referenda ˌre-fə-ˈren-də  or referendums

1

a

: the principle or practice of submitting to popular vote a measure passed on or proposed by a legislative body or by popular initiative

b

: a vote on a measure so submitted

2

: a diplomatic agent's note asking for government instructions

Did you know?

Referendum is a Latin word, but its modern meaning only dates from the 19th century, when a new constitution adopted by Switzerland stated that the voters could vote directly on certain issues. Thus, a referendum is a measure that's referred (that is, sent on) to the people. Since the U.S. Constitution doesn't provide for referenda (notice the common plural form) at the national level, referenda tend to be on local and state issues. In most locales, a few questions usually appear on the ballot at election time, often involving such issues as new zoning ordinances, new taxes for schools, and new limits on spending.

Examples of referendum in a Sentence

The issue was decided by referendum.

Recent Examples on the Web

In response, the Polisario continued to insist on Sahrawis’ right to a referendum on self-determination, which they were promised in the 1991 cease-fire. —Hannah Rae Armstrong, Foreign Affairs, 4 Mar. 2025

Not only would this require approval from both chambers of Congress, but Canada would need to back the effort, too, considering that candidate states typically hold a referendum on the statehood question. —Geoffrey Skelley, ABC News, 26 Feb. 2025

This additional cash flow is the result of the district’s successful bond referendum in the November election. —Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 25 Feb. 2025

But Berger praised Charlotte-area leaders for collaborating on the tax referendum package, and Hall offered a dash of optimism about its chances. —Mary Ramsey and, Charlotte Observer, 24 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, neuter of referendus, gerundive of referre to refer

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

referendum

noun

ref·​er·​en·​dum ˌref-ə-ˈren-dəm 

plural referenda -də  or referendums

: the idea or practice of letting voters approve or disapprove laws or suggested laws

also : such a vote

Legal Definition

referendum

noun

ref·​er·​en·​dum ˌrə-fə-ˈren-dəm 

plural referenda -də  or referendums

: the submission to popular vote of a measure passed on or proposed by a legislative body or by popular initiative

also : the popular vote on a measure so submitted

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, neuter of referendus, gerundive of referre to refer