write-in

1 of 2

noun

ˈrīt-ˌin 

1

: a vote cast by writing in the name of a candidate

2

: a candidate whose name is written in

write in

2 of 2

verb

wrote in; written in; writing in; writes in

transitive verb

1

: to insert in a document or text

2

a

: to insert (a name not listed on a ballot or voting machine) in an appropriate space

b

: to cast (a vote) in this manner

Examples of write-in in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The eligible resident who receives the most valid write-in votes will become mayor, even if the total is small. —Carolyn Gusoff, CBS News, 16 June 2026

Isabella Arthur qualified as a write-in candidate. —Martin E. Comas, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 June 2026

Verb

His sudden passing has left his wife, Pamela, to raise their two children alone, Melissa Lynch, a family friend wrote in a GoFundMe campaign statement. —Reeti Malhotra, Sacbee.com, 18 June 2026

The 167-page typescript has three pages written in pencil, with annotations and revisions by Wilson along with early AA member Hank Parkhurst, some in green and red pencil, some in ink. —Brian Boucher, ARTnews.com, 17 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1932, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for write-in

• aneurin
• crystallin
• eosin
• mandolin
• porphyrin
• superfine
• underpin
• vietminh
• violin
• akin
• auxin
• buckskin

Kids Definition

write-in

1 of 2 noun

ˈrīt-ˌin

1

: a vote cast by writing in the name of a candidate

2

: a candidate whose name is written in

write in

2 of 2 verb

: to insert (a name not listed on a ballot or voting machine) in an appropriate space