Pronunciation: [wˈe͡ɪstɪd vˈə͡ʊt] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "wasted vote" is fairly straightforward. "Wasted" is spelled with a "w" followed by an "a," pronounced as /weɪ/ in IPA. The "s" is pronounced as /s/ and followed by a "t," pronounced as /t/. "Vote" is spelled with a "v," pronounced as /v/ in IPA, followed by an "o" pronounced as /oʊ/ and a "t," pronounced as /t/. Together, the phrase is pronounced as /ˈweɪstɪd vəʊt/.
A "wasted vote" refers to a situation in elections where a vote cast for a particular candidate or party does not contribute to the candidate's victory or to the overall outcome of the election. In other words, it is a vote that has no effect on the final result.
This term is often used in electoral systems where a winner is determined by either a plurality or majority vote. In such systems, a wasted vote can occur in two scenarios. The first scenario is when a vote is cast for a candidate who has no chance of winning due to low public support or essential factors like logistic reasons. In this case, the vote is considered wasted as it does not contribute to the overall outcome and does not lead to the candidate's success.
The second scenario is when a vote is cast for a candidate who is already guaranteed to win by a significant margin. In this situation, the vote is seen as ineffective as it does not have any influence on the outcome; the candidate would have won even without that vote. Hence, it is deemed a wasted vote.
The concept of a wasted vote is often discussed in electoral reform debates, as it points to potential flaws or limitations of the electoral system employed in a particular jurisdiction. Some argue that a wasted vote can discourage voters from participating, as they may feel their vote will not make a difference.
The term "wasted vote" originated in the domain of politics and is used to describe a vote that does not have any impact or significance in the final outcome of an election. However, its specific etymology or exact origins are not well-documented.
The term "wasted vote" is a compound phrase composed of the words "wasted" and "vote". "Wasted" itself comes from the Old English word "wastan", meaning "to destroy" or "to consume". Over time, the meaning of "wasted" expanded to include the notion of value or potential being lost or squandered.
The word "vote" derives from Latin, specifically from the word "votum", which means "a vow" or "a solemn promise". As societies developed democratic systems, the word "vote" started representing an individual's choice or decision in an election or deliberation.
