1. a general vote by the electorate on a single political question that has been referred to them for a direct decision.
Word Originmid 18th century (denoting a proposal for approval): from Latin, gerund (‘referring’) or neuter gerundive (‘something to be brought back or referred’) of referre (see refer).
A referendum, plebiscite, or ballot measure is a direct vote by the electorate on a proposal, law, or political issue. A referendum may be either binding (resulting in the adoption of a new policy) or advisory (functioning like a large-scale opinion poll). Wikipedia