ballot // noun, verb

■ noun

1 [U,C]

the system of voting in writing and usually in secret; an occasion on which a vote is held:

The union cannot call a strike unless it holds a ballot of members.

The chairperson is chosen by secret ballot.

❖ to have/hold a ballot

◆ a postal/secret/strike ballot

2 (also ballot paper) [C]

the piece of paper or card on which sb marks who or what they are voting for:

To be approved, 75% of policyholders need to cast their ballots in favour of the scheme.

3 (Finance ) [U,C]

a fair way of choosing who to sell shares, bonds, etc. to in situations where there are not enough new shares, bonds, etc. for everyone who wants to buy them:

The allocation of the shares will be carried out by ballot and refunds for unsuccessful applications will be made.

■ verb

1 [+ obj]

to ask sb to vote in writing and secretly about sth:

The union is balloting its members on strike action.

2 [no obj]

to vote secretly about sth:

The workers balloted for a strike.

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