What does lobby mean?
“Lobby” has two widely used meanings connected by a long history of the word. In its physical sense, it is an entrance hall or vestibule, particularly in a hotel, theatre, office building, or similar public venue. In its political sense, a lobby is a group that seeks to influence government policy, while “to lobby” means to campaign for or against a decision by officials. The political sense developed from the idea of people gathering in a building's lobby, especially a legislative building, to meet members of parliament and press their concerns. Today, “lobby” can refer to a formal organization, an active campaign, or the broader activity of influencing decision-makers. It is often neutral and factual, though “lobbying” may sometimes carry implications of persistent or potentially undue pressure. The word is useful for describing both everyday places and organized attempts to shape public decisions.
An entrance hall or covered space at the entrance to a building, especially a public building such as a hotel, theatre, or office block.
"A large crowd had gathered in the hotel lobby."
In British English, “lobby” is the usual term; “foyer” is also common, especially for the entrance area of a theatre or hotel.
A group or organization that seeks to influence the decisions of government, Parliament, or another body with authority.
"The housing lobby met with ministers to discuss the new development rules."
The term can be neutral and descriptive, but it may imply organized or sustained political pressure.
To try to persuade politicians, officials, or other decision-makers to support or oppose a policy, proposal, or action.
"Small businesses lobbied the council against the proposed parking restrictions."
Common constructions include “lobby for” and “lobby against,” followed by the issue or proposed action.
The usual plural of the noun meaning either an entrance hall or a political pressure group.
"The hotel has several comfortable lobbies on the ground floor."
From a building's entrance hall to a pressure group at the heart of political influence, “lobby” has travelled remarkably far.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lobby come from?
The word “lobby” entered English in the late 16th century for the entrance hall of a building, especially a house of parliament, through Medieval Latin. The Medieval Latin word is generally traced to an earlier form connected with the Old French word “laubie,” denoting a covered gallery or portico. In the 17th century, the word began to be used for a place where members of Parliament met people seeking influence, and by the 18th century it had developed the political sense of a group seeking to influence legislation.
Related word forms
How lobby is actually used
The noun can refer either to the physical entrance area of a building or to a political pressure group. As a verb, “lobby” commonly takes “for” or “against”: “lobby for reform” and “lobby against the bill.” The word is neutral in tone, although “lobbyist” and “lobbying” can sometimes suggest aggressive or self-interested influence-seeking.
Easily confused with lobby
A lobby is a group or place, while a lobbyist is an individual who works to influence political decision-makers.