- the principle or practice of referring measures proposed or passed by a legislative body, head of state, etc., to the vote of the electorate for approval or rejection.
- a measure thus referred.
- a vote on such a measure.
- submission of an issue of public importance to the direct vote of the electorate
- a vote on such a measure
- a poll of the members of a club, union, or other group to determine their views on some matter
- a diplomatic official's note to his government requesting instructions
