Main Entry: ¹can·vass

Variant(s): also can·vas \ˈkan-vəs\

Function: verb

Inflected Form(s): can·vassed; can·vas·sing

Date: 1508

transitive verb

1 obsolete : to toss in a canvas sheet in sport or punishment
2 a : to examine in detail; specifically : to examine (votes) officially for authenticity b : discuss, debate
3 : to go through (a district) or go to (persons) in order to solicit orders or political support or to determine opinions or sentiments <canvass voters>intransitive verb : to seek orders or votes : solicit

— can·vass·er also can·vas·er noun