activism

noun

ac·​tiv·​ism ˈak-ti-ˌvi-zəm 

: a doctrine or practice that emphasizes direct vigorous action especially in support of or opposition to one side of a controversial issue

political activism

environmental activism

Examples of activism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Ahead of rocking the Pond with its classic hits, the famed norteño band brought its signature sound and activism to NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert. — Carlos De Loera, Los Angeles Times, 16 Oct. 2026

Five years ago, the Dream made headlines for their political activism more than their on-court performance. — Sara Germano, Sportico.com, 15 Oct. 2026

In Colorado, Republicans have gone after Democratic congressional candidate Manny Rutinel for his activism against meat production and factory farming. — Nicholas Riccardi, Fortune, 15 Oct. 2026

Inspired by documentary footage, the work draws attention to a quieter, often overlooked dimension of labor activism. — Sarah Belmont For Artnews, Robb Report, 14 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Aktivismus, from aktiv active entry 1 + -ismus -ism

First Known Use

1915, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing activism

• men's rights activism

Rhymes for activism

• autism
• fascism
• racism
• sikhism
• sophism
• statism
• sufism
• thomism
• tourism
• tropism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism