Lobby

Definition

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.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlɑːbi/
• Respelling: LAH-bee (with "LAH" as in "father" and "bee" as in "see")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlɒbi/
• Respelling: LOB-bee (with "LOB" as in "pot" and "bee" as in "see")

In both dialects, "lobby" places the primary stress on the first syllable. The American pronunciation has a longer "ah" sound in the first syllable, while the British pronunciation has a shorter "o" sound.

Etymology

Derived from the Medieval Latin word "lobium", meaning 'a covered walk, cloister'. The term has evolved to its present meaning, signifying a passage or hall of communication, especially when large enough to serve also as a waiting room.

Derivatives

• Lobbyist
• Lobbying
• Lobbied
• Lobbyer
• Lobbydom

Synonyms

• Foyer
• Vestibule
• Entrance hall

Antonyms

• None

Usage

Lobbies are commonly found in hotels, theaters, office buildings, and other public venues, serving as waiting or gathering areas. In politics, lobbying is a crucial activity where interest groups attempt to influence public policy and decisions.

Related Terms

• Vestibule: A small entrance hall or passage between the outer door and the interior of a building.
• Corridor: A long passage in a building from which doors lead into rooms.
• Reception Area: An area where visitors are received and greeted, typically in an office or hotel.

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Lobby (Noun): An entrance hall or corridor in a public building.
  • Example: "We waited in the hotel lobby until our room was ready."

• Lobby (Noun): A group of people who try to influence legislators or other public officials to achieve a specific goal.
  • Example: "The environmental lobby is pushing for stricter pollution controls."

Verb

• Lobby (Verb): To attempt to influence (a public official or decision-maker) in favor of a specific cause.
  • Example: "The organization is lobbying Congress to pass the new education bill."

• Lobby (Verb): To conduct activities aimed at influencing public officials and legislators.
  • Example: "They hired a team to lobby for the new healthcare regulations."