absentee ballot

noun

Synonyms of absentee ballotnext
: a ballot submitted (as by mail) in advance of an election by a voter who is unable to be present at the polls

Examples of absentee ballot 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.
Hill alleged that someone associated with Rose’s campaign offered Visa gift cards and health screenings in exchange for votes in favor of Rose and that the campaign was ballot harvesting, or collecting more than two absentee ballots, in violation of Florida law. Silas Morgan, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 Jan. 2026 State Election Board wants to get rid of absentee ballot drop boxes. Adam Beam, AJC.com, 23 Jan. 2026 In 2024 Connecticut voters overwhelmingly approved Question 1, a constitutional amendment removing the requirement that voters needed an excuse to vote by absentee ballot. Coalition, Hartford Courant, 11 Jan. 2026 But, despite having reservations, DeWine on Friday signed legislation eliminating Ohio's four-day grace period for absentee ballots and making other voting changes. CBS News, 23 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for absentee ballot

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of absentee ballot was in 1889

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Cite this Entry

“Absentee ballot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/absentee%20ballot. Accessed 31 Jan. 2026.

Legal Definition

absentee ballot

noun
absentee bal·​lot
: a ballot submitted (as by mail) in advance of an election by a voter who is unable to be present at the polls

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