What does "voting by acclamation" mean?

Voting by acclamation refers to a method of decision-making in which members express their approval or disapproval verbally or through gestures rather than through a formal written ballot. In this process, when a motion is made, the chair or presiding officer typically asks for those in favor to indicate their support, often by raising their hands or verbally stating "aye." If there is no significant opposition, the motion is considered passed without the need for a more formal voting method.

This approach is particularly useful in situations where the decision is expected to be unanimous or where the matter at hand is straightforward, allowing for a quicker and more efficient voting process. The informal nature of voting by acclamation fosters a sense of unity and can facilitate swift decision-making within the group, making it an appropriate choice for many types of meetings.