What does caucussing mean?
Caucussing is the present participle of the verb 'to caucus', meaning to meet as a caucus — that is, to gather privately with fellow members of a political party, faction, or interest group in order to debate, strategize, or select candidates before an open vote. In American politics, caucussing is especially associated with states such as Iowa, where party caucuses rather than primary elections determine support for presidential hopefuls. Beyond electoral politics, the term extends to any small, often informal huddle held ahead of a larger decision, as when committee members caucuss to align positions before reconvening. The word is most common in journalistic and political registers and is largely American in usage, though it is understood elsewhere. Its connotations range from routine deliberation to secretive, behind-the-scenes dealmaking, depending on context.
To meet or assemble as a caucus, typically to select candidates or formulate policy.
"Senators were caucussing all afternoon ahead of the floor vote."
Spelled 'caucusing' in standard US usage; 'caucussing' appears under British doubling conventions.
The action or process of holding or participating in a caucus.
"Hours of caucussing produced no consensus on the nominee."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of caucussing
'Caucus' first appeared in American English in the mid-18th century, notably in the diary of Boston merchant John Adams, referring to private political club meetings. Its ultimate origin is uncertain; one long-standing suggestion links it to a Algonquian word recorded by Captain John Smith, though this remains debated among etymologists. The verb 'to caucus', and hence 'caucussing', developed from the noun by ordinary English conversion in the 19th century.
Related word forms
How caucussing is actually used
Primarily used in American political journalism and commentary; the spelling with a double s ('caucussing') follows British doubling conventions, while American style typically writes 'caucusing'. The word carries a neutral-to-insider tone, suggesting backroom negotiation or coordinated maneuvering.
Easily confused with caucussing
Despite a superficial visual similarity, 'cursory' means hasty and not thorough, whereas 'caucussing' refers to holding party or faction meetings; they share no meaning.