See Also: Canvass(money)
canvass(1)(dictionary)
canvass(2)(dictionary)
canvass(dictionary)

canvass(2) (iou)



canvass verb. Also canvas. E16.
[from CANVAS noun1: the sense-development is unexpl.]
I. verb trans. Toss in a canvas sheet as a sport or punishment; knock about, batter. E16-M17.
verb trans. Discuss, criticize, examine fully; seek to ascertain; discuss with a view to adoption, propose (a plan etc.). M16.
Disraeli It was canvassed and criticised sentence by sentence. J. K. Galbraith We canvass our public wants to see where happiness can be improved. P. G. Wodehouse His first act..had been to canvass Ed. Robinson's views.
b. verb intrans. Engage in debate or discussion. M17.
F. Marryat We sat there canvassing over the affair.
c. verb trans. Scrutinize (votes). obsolete exc. US. E18.
verb intrans. Solicit votes, support, goods, etc. M16.
T. Dreiser His father canvassed for a washing machine and wringer company.
verb trans. Solicit votes, support, custom, etc., from; seek to ascertain the sentiments or intentions of. L17.
J. L. Motley His most trustworthy agent..was now actively canvassing the governments and peoples of Germany. Joyce Mr O'Connor had been engaged by Tierney's agents to canvass one part of the ward.
II. See CANVAS verb.
canvasser noun L16.