Definition

To refrain from voting on a measure—the cowardly middle ground that allows politicians to avoid going on record while pretending they didn't vote.

Example Usage

Three senators abstained from the vote, claiming they needed more time to study the issue.

Origin

From Latin 'abstinere,' meaning 'to hold back'

Fun Fact

Abstaining is often used strategically to avoid a recorded vote that might anger a key constituency.

Source: Legislative voting terminology

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