absentee ballot

noun

: a ballot submitted (as by mail) in advance of an election by a voter who is unable to be present at the polls

Examples of absentee ballot in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The latest numbers from the Michigan Department of State show more than two million absentee ballots have been requested statewide. — Elaine Rojas-Castillo, CBS News, 6 Oct. 2026

There are often deadlines and rules that voters must meet in order to participate in the program, and some states may require individuals to have an excuse in order to be eligible for an absentee ballot. — Time Staff, Time, 3 Oct. 2026

Qualifying residents, such as those who are disabled, may cast absentee ballots. — Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 30 Sep. 2026

Perhaps most noteworthy, the board made clear that the congressional map could change after residents cast their absentee ballots. — Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 23 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for absentee ballot

• alate
• fallot
• mallet
• palate
• palette
• pallet
• shallot

Legal Definition

absentee ballot

noun

absentee bal·​lot

: a ballot submitted (as by mail) in advance of an election by a voter who is unable to be present at the polls