ve|to

ve|to «VEE toh», noun, plural -toes, adjective, verb, -toed, -to|ing.

–n.

1. the right or power of a president or governor to reject bills passed by a lawmaking body: »

The President has the power of veto over bills passed in Congress.

2. the right or power of one branch or part of a government to forbid or prevent an action of another branch or part.

3. the right or power of any one member of an official body to prevent some action proposed by that body, especially in the United Nations Security Council: »

a categorical demand for a veto-ridden three-man administrative control council (Manchester Guardian).

4. the use of any such rights or powers: »

The governor's veto kept the bill from becoming a law.

5. a statement of the reasons for disapproval of a bill passed by the legislature.

6. any power or right to prevent action through prohibition.

7. a refusal of consent; prohibition: »

Our plan met with three vetoes—from Father, Mother, and our teacher.

–adj.

having to do with a veto: »

veto power.

–v.t.

1. to reject (a legislative measure) by a veto: »

The President has vetoed two bills during this session of Congress.

2. to inhibit or prevent some action proposed by a group or council.

3. to refuse to consent to: »

My parents vetoed my plan to buy a motorcycle.

╂[< Latin vetō I forbid, first person singular present of vetāre (used by Roman tribunes of the people in opposing senatorial or executive measures)]

–ve´to|er, noun.