Dictionary stumpPolitical campaigning

verb

stump

To campaign politically by giving speeches in different places.

The candidate stumps across the state before the election.

Etymology

stumpMiddle Englishstump

Political speakers used tree stumps as raised platforms. The platform’s name became a verb for campaigning through public speeches.

More examples

She stumped for her party.
They are stumping in rural counties.
He had stumped tirelessly throughout the campaign.

Forms

stump · stumps · stumped · stumping

Similar words

campaign: Includes activities beyond giving speeches.
canvass: Usually involves directly approaching voters for support.