Crossword Genius

Exclusive vote that may be taken between the reds (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

blackball

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This clue could be a double definition.

'exclusive' is the first definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't understand how one could define the other.

'vote that may be taken between the reds' is the second definition.
The answer and definition can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for blackball that I've seen before include "Ostracise" , "Veto (membership)" , "Exclude by a negative vote" , "bar?" , "Refuse to endorse" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.