English Reference
noun

election

n.
US /ɪˈɫɛkʃən/ UK /ɪlˈɛkʃən/ elec·tion UK spelling election's, election's

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    a formal event where people vote to choose a leader, such as a president or a member of parliament.

    the formal process of selecting a representative or official by popular vote.

    Simple

    The country is holding a general election next month to choose a new prime minister.

    In context

    The upcoming general election has prompted intense debate regarding economic policy and healthcare reform across the nation.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the act of choosing someone for a job or position by voting.

    the act or instance of electing someone to a specific office or position.

    Simple

    Her election as class president surprised many of her classmates.

    In context

    His unexpected election to the board of directors followed a series of high-profile departures within the executive team.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency TechnicalFormal Religion

    the belief in some Christian groups that God chooses certain people to be saved.

    the theological doctrine of God's predestination of individuals for salvation.

    Simple

    The preacher spoke about the doctrine of divine election during the service.

    In context

    The concept of unconditional election remains a central tenet of traditional Calvinist theology, distinguishing it from other Protestant traditions.

    predestination

Usage election day · election fraud · election campaign


From Middle English eleccioun, eleccion, from Anglo-Norman eleccioun, from Latin ēlectiōn-, stem of ēlectiō (“choice, selection”), from ēligō (“to pluck out, to choose”). Equivalent to elect + -ion.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin xno eleccioun
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Very common
Updated