Lobby

/ˈlɑː.bi/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A large open area inside the entrance of a public building, such as a hotel or theater.

Guests waited in the hotel lobby for their check-in to be processed.

A group of individuals or organizations that seek to influence political decisions or legislation.

The environmental lobby has been pushing for stronger regulations on carbon emissions.

verb

To seek to influence (a politician or public official) on an issue.

The committee plans to lobby Congress for increased funding for education.

Middle English 'lobye', from Latin 'lobbia' meaning 'covered walk'.

lobby for something:

To try to persuade someone to support a particular cause or policy.

lobbying efforts:

Activities aimed at influencing political decisions.

lobbyist:

A person who engages in lobbying activities.

To lobby someone.

He'll try to lobby the committee members before the vote.

Lobbying can be seen as a way to grease the wheels.

They say that the lobbyists are just trying to grease the wheels to get their way.