Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

by-election

Noun

/ˌbaɪɪˈlɛkʃən/

Definition

A by-election is a special election held to fill a vacancy that arises in a legislative body between general elections.

Examples

The by-election for the vacant parliamentary seat was scheduled for next month.
After the sudden resignation of the incumbent, a by-election was announced.
The by-election drew significant media attention due to the potential impact on the governing party’s majority.

Meaning

By-elections occur when a member of parliament or a local council resigns, dies, or is otherwise unable to continue serving, prompting the need for an immediate election to appoint a successor.