verb / noun
canvass
CAN-vus/kˈænvʌs/
To examine a matter systematically through inquiry.
Volunteers canvass the neighborhood to learn which issues concern voters.
Etymology
Tossing material in a canvas sheet to sift it supplied the image for “examine carefully.” From there came soliciting votes or testing support, though the image behind that final shift is less clear.
In context
you can sign up to host the rally to canvass the phone bank to knock doors
More examples
- The board canvasses several possible solutions.
- Their door-to-door canvass identifies undecided residents.
- The researcher canvassed opinions from across the profession.
Forms
canvass · canvasses · canvassed · canvassing