referendum
noun
or referendums
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
Thomas Good, Sun Sentinel, 13 Feb. 2026
But the court also agreed to hear arguments about whether the Democratic mid-decade gerrymandering push is legal, regardless of whether voters approve the referendum.
—Dave Goldiner, New York Daily News, 13 Feb. 2026
The Swiss People’s Party (SVP), which holds the most seats in parliament, announced the referendum on Wednesday after gathering enough support through petition signatures.
—Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 13 Feb. 2026
Despite the state Supreme Court allowing the referendum, the decision may not be final.
—Molly Parks, The Washington Examiner, 13 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for referendum
Cite this Entry
“Referendum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/referendum. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
referendum
noun
or referendums
Legal Definition
referendum
noun
or referendums
New Latin, from Latin, neuter of referendus, gerundive of referre to refer
