[can.vass] also can.vas vt (1508) 1 obs: to toss in a canvas sheet in sport or punishment
2. a: to examine in detail; specif: to examine (votes) officially for authenticity b: discuss, debate
3: to go through (a district) or go to (persons) in order to solicit orders or political support or to determine opinions or sentiments ~ vi: to seek orders or votes: solicit -- can.vass.er also can.vas.er n
[2]canvass also canvas n (ca. 1611): the act or an instance of canvassing; esp: a personal solicitation of votes or survey of public opinion