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
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In the absence of a resolution over the next two days, Macron must decide whether to name another prime minister, who is almost sure to face the same problems that brought down Lecornu, or call a general election. Robert Birsel, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Oct. 2025 Early in-person and absentee voting for the general election begins on October 7, 2025. Mariyam Muhammad, Cincinnati Enquirer, 6 Oct. 2025 The general election for secretary of state is November, 3, 2026. Hayleigh Colombo, IndyStar, 6 Oct. 2025 Harrell’s challenger in next month’s general election, Katie Wilson – a progressive activist and former executive director of the Transit Riders Union – favors a more interventionist approach. Center Square, The Washington Examiner, 4 Oct. 2025 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

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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 Oct. 2025.

Legal Definition

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

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