[ˈkanvəs], (Verb)

Definitions:
- solicit votes from (electors or members)
(e.g: in each ward, two workers canvassed some 2,000 voters)

- propose (an idea or plan) for discussion
(e.g: early retirement was canvassed as a solution to the problem of unemployment)


Phrases:

Origin:
early 16th century (in the sense ‘toss in a canvas sheet’ (as a sport or punishment)): from canvas. Later extended senses include ‘criticize, discuss’ (mid 16th century) and ‘propose for discussion’; hence ‘seek support for’

[ˈkanvəs], (Noun)

Definitions:
- an act of canvassing
(e.g: a house-to-house canvass)


Phrases:

Origin:
early 16th century (in the sense ‘toss in a canvas sheet’ (as a sport or punishment)): from canvas. Later extended senses include ‘criticize, discuss’ (mid 16th century) and ‘propose for discussion’; hence ‘seek support for’