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Definition of lobby

lobby

/ˈlɑːbi/
lob · by

Plural:lobbies
•
Past Simple:lobbied
•
Past Participle:lobbied
•
Present Participle:lobbying
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lobby Lexical Profile

lobby Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A room providing a space out of which one or more other rooms or corridors lead, typically located near the entrance of a public building or hotel.

Example

"We waited for our friends in the hotel lobby before heading out to dinner."


2

A group of people organized to actively seek to influence politicians or public officials on a particular issue or policy.

Example

"The environmental lobby successfully pushed for stricter regulations on carbon emissions."

Synonyms
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• verb

1

To attempt to influence a politician, public official, or governing body on an issue.

Example

"Several major corporations are lobbying the government to reduce corporate tax rates."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for lobby

Word Origin & Etymology

Originates from the mid-16th century via monastic Latin 'lobia' (covered walk or cloister), stemming from a Germanic root related to German 'Laube' (arbor). The political sense arose in the mid-19th century, derived from the practice of members of the public gathering in the physical lobbies of legislative chambers to speak with lawmakers.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Lobby. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/lobby
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