PoliticsJuly 17, 2026

canvasser

/ˈkænvəsər/

Definition

A person who solicits votes, gathers opinions, or collects information, in this specific case, an individual tasked with collecting voter registration forms.

Etymology

The word derives from the verb 'canvas' (later 'canvass'), which originated from the Old French 'canevas' meaning hemp or canvas cloth. It originally referred to the process of sifting or straining something through canvas, metaphorically evolving to mean 'sifting through' or 'scrutinizing' a group of people to solicit support or information.

In the news

The article uses this term to describe individuals who allegedly committed fraud by signing and submitting voter registration applications in other people's names.

Trump Chinese election meddling statement faces skepticism. Here's why

Read the full article ↗

USA Today

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