v. & n.
v. 1 a intr. solicit votes. b tr. solicit votes from (electors in a constituency). 2 tr. a ascertain opinions of. b seek custom from. c discuss thoroughly. 3 tr. Brit. propose (an idea or plan etc.). 4 intr. US check the validity of votes.
n. the process of or an instance of canvassing, esp. of electors. canvasser n.
[ orig. = toss in a sheet, agitate, f. CANVAS ]