Pronunciation: [a͡ʊtvˈə͡ʊtɪdz] (IPA) 
The word "outvoteds" is spelled with a -ed suffix added to the base word "outvotes." The IPA phonetic transcription for this word would be /aʊtˈvoʊtsəd/. The stressed syllable is the first syllable, "out," and the -ed ending is pronounced with a -t sound because the preceding sound is voiceless (the "s" sound in "votes"). The word means to be defeated in a vote or election by having fewer votes than the opposition.
"Outvoted" is the past tense and past participle form of the verb "outvote." To accurately define "outvoted," we must first understand the root term "vote." A vote refers to a formal expression of preference or opinion in a decision-making process, typically through a show of hands or marking a ballot. "Outvote" is a transitive verb that describes the act of defeating or prevailing over someone or a group by obtaining more votes than them.
Therefore, "outvoted" pertains to a situation where an individual or a group has been defeated or overruled in a vote by the opposition. It signifies that the opposing side was successful in garnering a greater number of votes, thereby surpassing the votes in favor of the individual or group being "outvoted." This term can be widely applicable across various contexts, such as political elections, committee decisions, or even family or social gatherings where matters are decided through a voting mechanism.
Being "outvoted" implies that one's stance or viewpoint did not receive enough support to attain a favorable outcome in the voting process. This outcome may signify a defeat, loss, or a change in direction, as the majority opinion or preference prevailed. Furthermore, "outvoted" indicates the democratic nature of decision-making, where the will of the majority triumphs, potentially influencing the course of action taken.
The word "outvoted" is formed by combining the prefix "out-" and the verb "voted".
The prefix "out-" typically means "outside" or "exceeding" in various contexts. In this case, it suggests the idea of surpassing or prevailing over someone in voting.
The verb "voted" comes from the Old English word "votian", which means "to vow" or "to pledge". Over time, its meaning shifted to refer to expressing one's choice or opinion through a formal process, such as voting.
Therefore, "outvoted" essentially means being defeated or overruled in a vote, with the prefix "out-" emphasizing the idea of being outnumbered or having one's opinion surpassed by others.
