Lobby: meaning, definitions and examples

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lobby

[ ˈlɒbi ]

^{Context #1}

in a building

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

Synonyms

entrance hall, foyer, reception area

Examples of usage

The hotel lobby was spacious and elegantly decorated.
We waited in the lobby for our appointment.

^{Context #2}

politics

A group of people seeking to influence politicians or public officials on a particular issue.

Synonyms

advocacy group, interest group, pressure group

Examples of usage

The environmental lobby has been campaigning for stricter regulations.
The gun lobby opposes any new gun control measures.

^{Context #3}

politics

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

Synonyms

advocate, influence, petition

Examples of usage

The organization lobbied Congress to pass the new bill.
They have been lobbying for increased funding for education.

Translations

Translations of the word "lobby" in other languages:

🇵🇹 saguão

🇮🇳 लॉबी

🇩🇪 Lobby

🇮🇩 lobi

🇺🇦 лобі

🇵🇱 lobby

🇯🇵 ロビー

🇫🇷 hall

🇪🇸 vestíbulo

🇹🇷 lobi

🇰🇷 로비

🇸🇦 ردهة

🇨🇿 hala

🇸🇰 hala

🇨🇳 大堂

🇸🇮 avla

🇮🇸 anddyri

🇰🇿 фойе

🇬🇪 ლობი

🇦🇿 lobbi

🇲🇽 vestíbulo

Word origin

The word 'lobby' originated in the 16th century, from the Medieval Latin 'lobium' meaning covered walk or portico. It was initially used to describe a corridor or passageway, eventually evolving to refer to the entrance area of a building where people gather. In the political sense, lobbying dates back to the 19th century when interest groups began to advocate for their causes with lawmakers.