can·vass also can·vas /'kan-vəs/ vb -vassed also -vased, -vass·ing, also, -vas·ing
vt
1 a: to examine in detail; specif: to examine (votes) officially for authenticity
b: to make the subject of discussion or debate
2: to go through (a district) or go to (persons) in order to solicit orders or political support or to determine opinions or sentiments
vi: to seek or solicit orders or votes
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of Law. Merriam-Webster. 1996.