electorate
UK: ɪˈlɛkt(ə)rət | US: ɪˈlɛkt(ə)rət
n. the group of people qualified to vote in an election
n. the office or territory of an elector (historical context)
The word "electorate" combines "elector," derived from Latin elector (one who chooses), with the suffix "-ate," which forms nouns denoting a group or function. "Elector" itself comes from eligere (to pick out, select), reflecting the concept of choosing representatives. Over time, "electorate" evolved to specifically refer to the body of voters in a democratic system.
The electorate will decide the outcome of the election next month.
Politicians often tailor their campaigns to appeal to the electorate.
A large percentage of the electorate abstained from voting.
The candidate focused on issues important to the rural electorate.
The electorate’s dissatisfaction led to a surprising election result.