canvass

noun

1. the setting for a narrative or fictional or dramatic account

- the crowded canvas of history

- the movie demanded a dramatic canvas of sound

Similar word(s): canvas

Definition categories: state, background, scope, setting

2. an inquiry into public opinion conducted by interviewing a random sample of people

Similar word(s): poll

Definition categories: thought, enquiry, inquiry, research

3. a large piece of fabric (usually canvas fabric) by means of which wind is used to propel a sailing vessel

Similar word(s): canvas, sail, sheet

Definition categories: man–made

4. a tent made of canvas fabric

Similar word(s): canvas

Definition categories: man–made, tent

5. an oil painting on canvas fabric

Similar word(s): canvas

Definition categories: man–made

6. the mat that forms the floor of the ring in which boxers or professional wrestlers compete

- the boxer picked himself up off the canvas

Similar word(s): canvas

Definition categories: man–made, mat

7. a heavy, closely woven fabric (used for clothing or chairs or sails or tents)

Similar word(s): canvas

Definition categories: man–made, cloth, fabric, material, textile

verb

1. get the opinions (of people) by asking specific questions

Similar word(s): poll

Definition categories: social, survey

2. solicit votes from potential voters in an electoral campaign

Definition categories: social, beg, solicit, tap

3. consider in detail and subject to an analysis in order to discover essential features or meaning

Similar word(s): analyse, analyze, examine, study

Definition categories: cognition