1. a direct vote by the electorate on a particular political question or issue

Examples

• The citizens voted in a referendum to decide whether to build the new stadium.
• Scotland held a referendum on independence in 2014.
• The referendum passed by a narrow margin of 52% to 48%.
• Local officials called for a referendum on the proposed tax increase.
• The constitutional amendment requires approval by referendum.
• Voters will decide the issue through a binding referendum next month.