rhizoverbBeta
DictionarylobbySeeking influence
verb / noun

lobby

Organized effort to influence official decisions.

Parents lobby state lawmakers for better funding for public schools.

Etymology
laubiaLatincovered walk

Lobbying takes its name from the lobby or hall where people could approach legislators. The place-name became a verb and then a term for organized political influence.

More examples

  • The farm lobby opposes cuts to agricultural aid.
  • Residents lobbied the city council to keep the library open.
  • Several organizations are lobbying against the proposed tax increase.

Forms

lobby · lobbies · lobbied · lobbying

lobbyist noun — Someone who seeks to influence official decisions.

Similar words

advocate
Emphasizes supporting a cause, not necessarily approaching officials directly.
campaign
Involves coordinated efforts that may target public opinion rather than officials.
pressure
Emphasizes pushing someone to act, not necessarily through organized persuasion.