activism

noun

ac·​tiv·​ism ˈak-ti-ˌvi-zəm How to pronounce activism (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The hotline, called Gay Talk, was created in the 1980s by Keith Spare, who was known in the community for his gay rights activism. Noelle Alviz-Gransee, Kansas City Star, 1 July 2025 In the end, the event not only raised over $4 million, but became a blueprint for fashion activism. Jordan Wake, Vogue, 30 June 2025 Only Rachel Kushner could weave environmental activism, paranoia, and nihilism into a gripping philosophical thriller. Gabrielle Bellot, Literary Hub, 27 June 2025 During this time, managers have been tasked with keeping people happy while balancing executive interests in productivity, office attendance and avoiding corporate activism. Aman Kidwai, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for activism

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1915, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of activism was in 1915

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Activism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/activism. Accessed 6 Jul. 2025.

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