“Pole” or “Poll”

Overview

pole / poll are similar-sounding terms with different meanings (referred to as homophones). To better understand the differences, see below for definitions, pronunciation guides, and example sentences using each term. 👇

Definitions

pole: (noun) a long (usually round) rod of wood or metal or plastic. (noun) a native or inhabitant of Poland. (noun) one of two divergent or mutually exclusive opinions. (noun) one of two points of intersection of the Earth's axis and the celestial sphere. (noun) one of two antipodal points where the Earth's axis of rotation intersects the Earth's surface. (noun) a long fiberglass sports implement used for pole vaulting. (noun) one of the two ends of a magnet where the magnetism seems to be concentrated. (verb) support on poles. (verb) deoxidize molten metals by stirring them with a wooden pole.

poll: (noun) an inquiry into public opinion conducted by interviewing a random sample of people. (noun) the part of the head between the ears. (noun) a tame parrot. (noun) the counting of votes (as in an election). (verb) get the opinions (of people) by asking specific questions. (verb) vote in an election at a polling station. (verb) get the votes of. (verb) convert into a pollard.

Pronunciation

pole: p·OW·l

poll: p·OW·l

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