Definition and meaning of plurality: The term plurality refers to the greatest number of votes cast for a single candidate. Plurality is a system of voting that has long been used in the American political system. This system can lead to two-party dominance, as the candidate with the most votes is always the one that wins, regardless of who else may have been running. This system also marginalizes independent candidates, as their vote is spread out and they are unlikely to receive a majority of votes. Plurality is a system that rewards candidates from the two major parties and discourages independent candidates from entering the political process.