0 an unofficial vote that is taken to discover what people think about an idea or problem or how they intend to vote in an election:
1 an occasion when a number of people are asked for their opinions about something in an informal way:
This straw poll shows a field of commentators quite evenly divided - indicating that the topic is alive and worthy of continued consideration.
If an official believes that the majority is wrong, then the straw poll has at least informed him of the need for educating more people to his point of view.
Was it a straw poll among his friends at the yacht club?
After discussion, the programme presenter took a straw poll of the large audience.
Is it not the case that any informal or straw poll would show that the majority of the public are opposed to metrication?
A straw poll would reveal that the majority believe that it is of paramount importance to keep our independent deterrent.
Does he not think that he would get rather better value for money if instead of spending £50,000 on a straw poll he had the courage to have a real poll?
A straw poll in my constituency of businesses who must trade with people who deal in drugs revealed a total lack of awareness of obligations in that regard.