power of veto; right to veto
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
veto power; right to overrule
formalA formal political or legal power typically held by a head of state or a legislative upper house to block legislation.
The president exercised his veto power to reject the budget bill passed by Congress.
In that country's constitution, the king holds the absolute power of veto over bills.
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This reform bill ultimately failed to take effect due to the veto power of the upper house.
noun
right of a minority to veto a majority; veto power
formalTypically used in international organizations or specific voting bodies where certain members (e.g., permanent members of the UN Security Council) can block decisions supported by the majority.
As a permanent member of the Security Council, that country has used its veto power multiple times.
According to the bylaws, any important resolution of this committee requires unanimous consent, which means each member has a de facto veto power.
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The veto power (of a single vote) can sometimes hinder collective action by the international community.