lobbyist Chiefly U.S.
(ˈlɒbɪɪst)
[f. lobby + -ist.]
One who frequents the lobbies of the House of Representatives in order to influence members in the exercise of their legislative functions; occas., a journalist or other person who frequents the lobby of the House of Commons. Also, one who promotes a ‘lobby’ (see lobby n. 3 c).
| 1863 Cornh. Mag. Jan. 96 A Representative listening to a lobbyist. 1888 Bryce Amer. Commw. I. xiv. 213 The arrangements of the committee system have produced and sustain the class of professional ‘lobbyists’,..who make it their business to ‘see’ members. 1894 Sat. Rev. 14 Apr. 383/2 The excited lobbyists who prattled last Saturday and Monday about a threatened defeat of Ministers. 1945 Sun (Baltimore) 23 Oct. 1/4 Hoffman identified Arundel in a House speech as a Washington ‘lobbyist’ who, he was informed, picked up the $75,000 check which paid for the festivities. 1961 Encounter Jan. 6/2 Skilful lobbyists with large funds and a powerful influence on the Algiers administration. 1971 Nature 4 June 278/2 The food industry lobbyists convincingly argue that the FDA is not responsibly handling the authority it already has. 1971 Daily Tel. 9 Nov. 15/6 Legislative provisions, which are promoted by a group of hysterical lobbyists who are spreading the fear of a world catastrophe because of chemical poisoning. 1974 ‘R. B. Dominic’ Epitaph for Lobbyist i. 6, I don't like high-powered lobbyists and their greasy favors. |
So ˈlobbyism, the system of lobbying.
| 1883 Pall Mall G. 6 Sept. 3/2 American manners, American lobbyism, and American corruption. |