disenfranchise
/ˌdɪsɪnˈfrænˌtʃaɪz/
Definition
To deprive a person of the right to vote or to create barriers that effectively prevent them from participating in the electoral process.
Etymology
The word combines the prefix 'dis-' (meaning 'away' or 'reversal') with 'enfranchise,' which comes from the Old French 'enfranchir,' meaning to set free. It entered English to denote the removal of the rights or privileges previously granted to a citizen.
In the news
In the article, the term is used to describe how potential changes to voting deadlines or mailing procedures might hinder certain voters' ability to cast their ballots. It highlights the importance of keeping the voting system accessible to all citizens.
Leader of California Assembly elections committee defends state's process | CA Politics 360
Read the full article ↗KCRA