noun

proponent

pruh-POH-nunt/prəˈpəʊnənt/

A person who supports an idea, plan, or cause.

The playground proponent presents the model enthusiastically to two listeners.

Community advocate confidently gestures toward proposed small playground model while two listeners consider it, active support of plan clear, no placards or words.

Etymology

proLatinforward, before

+ponLatinto put

+entLatinone who does

A proponent literally “puts forward” something for consideration. The word first named someone presenting a proposition or argument, connecting advocacy with bringing an idea before others.

In context

Ed Mays34:52

Betsy DeVos is a proponent of the for-profit colleges she's brought in people from the for-profit colleges

Caitlin Zaloom: Indebted

More examples

Proponents of the plan say it will reduce traffic.
As a proponent of exercise, he encourages daily walks.
The proposal lost its strongest proponent when the mayor resigned.

Forms

proponent · proponents

Similar words

advocate: Emphasizes actively speaking or arguing in favor of something.
supporter: Also applies to backing people, teams, and organizations.
champion: Suggests especially vigorous or determined support for a cause.