by a show of hands

by a show of hands

Based on a visual representation of interest (indicated by people raising their hands). Class, we'll decide what to do at recess by a show of hands. Who wants to play tag?
See also: by, hand, of, show
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

by a show of hands

[of a vote taken] expressed by people raising their hands. We were asked to vote for the candidates for captain by a show of hands. Bob wanted us to vote on paper, not by a show of hands, so that we could have a secret ballot.
See also: by, hand, of, show
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
See also:
  • a show of hands
  • show of hands
  • tag on
  • tag in
  • tag out
  • tag and rag
  • bobtail
  • rag, tag, and bobtail
  • no joy
  • jailhouse attorney