english
1
general::
Phrase(s): a show of hands a display of raised hands [in a group of people] that can be counted for the purpose of votes or surveys. • We were asked to vote for the candidates for captain by a show of hands. • Jack wanted us to vote on paper, not by a show of hands, so that we could have a secret ballot.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
An informal vote made by participants holding up one hand each to indicate a choice, as in Let's have a show of hands? how many want the next meeting on a Sunday? [Late 1700s]
American Heritage Idioms