Word

lobby

noun C1

UK /ˈlɒb.i/

US /ˈlɑ.bi/

Meanings

noun

the entrance hall or waiting area of a public building

verb

to try to influence government or other decision-makers through organized persuasion

noun

a group of people who try to influence political decisions in favor of a particular interest

Definition

A lobby is the entrance hall of a public building where people arrive, wait, or meet.

A lobby is the large area just inside the main entrance of a building such as a hotel, office, or theater. People often wait there, meet others, or get information at a reception desk. As a verb, to lobby means to try to influence politicians or decision-makers, usually by organized persuasion and discussion.

Examples

I waited in the lobby until the conference room was ready.
You can usually find a taxi right outside the lobby of that hotel.
She decided to lobby the council for safer cycling routes in her neighborhood.
They formed a lobby to push for stricter environmental standards in their industry.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse the noun lobby (a building entrance area) with the verb lobby (to influence decision-makers) and use the wrong form in a sentence.