write-in

1 of 2

noun

ˈrīt-ˌin 

1

: a vote cast by writing in the name of a candidate

2

: a candidate whose name is written in

write in

2 of 2

verb

wrote in; written in; writing in; writes in

transitive verb

1

: to insert in a document or text

2

a

: to insert (a name not listed on a ballot or voting machine) in an appropriate space

b

: to cast (a vote) in this manner

Examples of write-in in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The date for residents to register as a write-in candidate passed in late January. —Joseph States, Chicago Tribune, 11 Feb. 2025

Alliance San Diego, an election watchdog group, raised concerns that eliminating primaries could hurt write-in candidates. —David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 Feb. 2025

Verb

These annual reports can run more than 100 pages long, and are typically written in dense, lawyered corporate-speak. —Maria Aspan, NPR, 7 Feb. 2025

Although many worked at least part of the following week, when the Labor Department conducted its employment survey, others couldn’t, Goldman Sachs wrote in a note to clients. —Paul Davidson, USA TODAY, 7 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1932, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

write-in

1 of 2 noun

ˈrīt-ˌin

1

: a vote cast by writing in the name of a candidate

2

: a candidate whose name is written in

write in

2 of 2 verb

: to insert (a name not listed on a ballot or voting machine) in an appropriate space