straw poll: Idiom Meaning and Origin

Straw poll is an idiom that originated from the practice of conducting informal surveys by using a straw or a similar object to mark a choice. The term "straw poll" is commonly used to mean an unofficial or non-binding poll conducted to gauge public opinion or preference. It is often used in politics, but it can also be applied in various other contexts.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the idiom can be found in a newspaper article from The Spokane Press in July 1900, where it was used to describe the practice of taking an informal poll of the audience at a political convention by having them raise hands or indicate their preference using straw or paper.

The term "straw poll" gained popularity in the early 20th century and became associated with the practice of using straw or similar objects to conduct mock polls. It is believed to have originated from the idea of drawing lots by using straws to determine the outcome, which dates back centuries.

In modern usage, a straw poll is often conducted as a way to gauge public opinion on a specific issue or to test the viability of a candidate or proposal. It is typically a non-scientific method and does not guarantee accurate representation of the overall population. Straw polls are commonly used in political campaigns, debates, and conferences as a way to informally measure public sentiment.

Although a straw poll does not carry the same weight as a formal poll or election, it can provide valuable insights and serve as an indicator of broader trends or preferences. The results of a straw poll can influence public perception, media coverage, and political strategies.

It is important to note that the term "straw poll" can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation where a small group or subset of people is used to represent the views or opinions of a larger population. This usage highlights the informal and potentially biased nature of the poll, emphasizing its limited scope and validity.

The idiom "straw poll" is often referred to as the "straw that stirs the drink." This means that it is a small, seemingly insignificant action or event that has a significant impact on the overall situation. Just like a straw can stir a drink and change its taste, a straw poll can influence public opinion and shape the course of events.

Another idiom related to straw poll is "go to the polls." This means to participate in an election or vote on a specific issue. In the context of a straw poll, it signifies the action of casting votes or expressing preferences in an informal manner to gauge public sentiment.

The phrase "court of public opinion" is also related to straw poll. It refers to the collective judgment or evaluation of the general public on a particular matter. In a straw poll, public opinion is solicited and considered, making it a form of informal court of public opinion.

Lastly, the idiom "cast one's vote" is closely associated with straw poll. It means to formally express one's opinion or preference in a voting situation. In a straw poll, individuals cast their votes or indicate their choices using a straw or similar object, although the result may not have the legal or binding significance of a formal vote.

The idiom "straw poll" originated from the practice of using straw or similar objects to conduct informal surveys. It has evolved to refer to non-binding polls conducted to gauge public opinion, particularly in politics. While not as statistically rigorous as formal polling, straw polls can provide valuable insights and influence perceptions. The term is also used metaphorically to describe situations where a small group represents a larger population. The idiom is a reflection of the human desire to understand and measure public sentiment, despite its inherent limitations and challenges.