general election

noun

: an election usually held at regular intervals in which candidates are elected in all or most constituencies of a nation or state

Examples of general election in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
At least a half-dozen candidates have thrown their hats in the ring as party leaders plan what could be a very contentious mini-convention to pick a repacement for Platner on the fall general election ballot. — Dave Goldiner, New York Daily News, 11 July 2026 Former Capitol Hill staffer Jordan Wood was projected to lose to Collins by nine points in the general election. — Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 11 July 2026 State law includes a provision for Democrats to replace Platner before the general election, but the replacement must by named by July 27. — Meg Kinnard, Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2026 She's characterized herself as the more experienced candidate, and the one with the best odds to beat Rogers in the general election this November. — Justin Papp, CNBC, 10 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for general election

Word History

First Known Use

1640, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of general election was in 1640

Rhymes for general election

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Browse Nearby Words

general education
general election
general endorsement
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Cite this Entry

“General election.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/general%20election. Accessed 14 Jul. 2026.

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general election

noun
: an election usually held at regular intervals in which candidates are elected in all or most constituencies of a nation or state

More from Merriam-Webster on general election

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about general election

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