can·vass(knvs)
v. can·vassed, can·vass·ing, can·vass·es
v.tr.
1. To examine carefully or discuss thoroughly; scrutinize: "The evidence had been repeatedly canvassed in American courts" Anthony Lewis.
2.
a. To go through (a region) or go to (persons) to solicit votes or orders.
b. To conduct a survey of (public opinion); poll.
v.intr.
1. To make a thorough examination or conduct a detailed discussion.
2. To solicit voters, orders, or opinions.
n.
1. An examination or discussion.
2. A solicitation of votes or orders.
3. A survey of public opinion.
[From obsolete canvass, to toss in a canvas sheet as punishment, from canvas.]
canvass·er n.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2003. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
I want the results of the canvass dumped on the canvas stretched across the crevasse.
mark yeah-it-was-lame Bailey
