What does vetoing mean?
Vetoing is the present participle and gerund of veto, meaning to exercise a veto or formally reject a proposal. It is especially common in political, legal, and committee language, where an authorized person or body can prevent a decision from taking effect. In general writing, vetoing suggests more than simple disapproval: it implies the use of a recognized power to stop or block action. The word has a formal, procedural tone and occurs naturally in descriptions of ongoing or repeated institutional action. Its compact -ing form is especially useful when describing continuing efforts to block legislation or other proposals. Historically, the word derives from Latin vetare, meaning “to forbid,” and retains the force of a formal prohibition. Understanding vetoing therefore means recognizing both the authority involved and the decisive effect of the action, rather than merely expressing personal opposition.
verb (present participle and gerund)Exercising a veto; formally rejecting or blocking a proposal, measure, or decision. The word also functions as a gerund meaning the act of using a veto.
- Exercising a veto: formally rejecting or blocking a proposal, decision, or measure.
"The committee is vetoing any proposal that would increase the budget."
"Members of the council are vetoing the proposed changes to the development plan."
"By vetoing the bill repeatedly, the governor significantly delayed its implementation."
The Roman Senate's veto meant “I forbid,” turning a single objection into decisive power.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does vetoing come from?
Vetoing comes from the English verb veto, which entered use in the early 17th century from Latin vetare, meaning “to forbid.” The Latin language supplied the form veto, meaning “I forbid,” while the English noun and verb developed the modern senses of a formal prohibition and the act of blocking a proposal. The present participle vetoing follows the ordinary English -ing form and is related to the Latin root represented by vetare and vetitus, “forbidden.”
Related word forms
How vetoing is actually used
Formal and institutional, especially in political, legal, and committee contexts. It is less common in casual speech and implies an authorized decision rather than ordinary disagreement.
Easily confused with vetoing
Vetoing means formally blocking or rejecting something, whereas vetting means screening or assessing people, materials, or applications.