Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
runoff election
noun
/ˈrʌnˌɔf ɪˈlɛkʃən/
Definition
A runoff election is a second round of voting that takes place when no candidate achieves the required majority in the initial election.
Examples
- The city held a runoff election to finalize the mayoral race.
- In competitive districts, runoff elections can significantly tilt the balance of power.
- Voter turnout often increases during runoff elections due to heightened interest and media coverage.
Meaning
Runoff elections are held to determine a clear winner when more than two candidates compete, and the leading candidate does not secure enough votes to be declared the outright winner.
Synonyms
- secondary election
- deciding election
- subsequent election
