To discuss; literally, to beat or shake out, to open by beating or shaking, like the L. Discutio. This is the common use of the word, as to canvass a subject, or the policy of a measure.

To examine returns of votes; to search or scrutinize; as, to canvass the votes for senators.

To seek or go about to solicit votes or interest; to use efforts to obtain; to make interest in favor of; followed by for; as, to canvass for an office, or preferment; to canvass for a friend.

Examination; close inspection to know the state of; as a canvass of votes.

Discussion; debate .

A seeking, solicitation, or efforts to obtain.