canvas and canvass - the difference Canvas is heavy cloth. To
canvass means to survey opinion or to solicit votes.  The words
canvas and canvass sound identical, but their meanings are very
different.   The noun canvas (with one s at the end) refers to a
heavy woven cloth of hemp, flax or cotton. It is used for sails,
tents and paintings.  The word canvas is also used figuratively
for the floor of a boxing or wrestling ring (i.e., they are
often not made of canvas).   The verb canvass has several
closely related meanings. It can mean: To collect opinions.  Can
you canvass the local area to determine the support for the
bypass?   To electioneer (i.e., to collect votes through
persuasion of voters in a political campaign).  Mr Millar will
arrange for Joan's team to canvass High Street and Bond Street
on Saturday. We need as much support from the west side of town
as possible. To examine closely.  Penny canvassed every shop in
Wigan before she found the right To ask around  The
investigation team will canvass th