advocacy

noun

ad·​vo·​ca·​cy ˈad-və-kə-sē 

: the act or process of supporting a cause or proposal : the act or process of advocating (see advocate entry 2) something

known for his advocacy of gay rights

Examples of advocacy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Opponents have picked up support from some local advocacy groups and politicians. —Mary Ramsey updated June 8, Charlotte Observer, 9 June 2026

The system, which is not legally binding, has drawn praise and some skepticism from advocacy groups and survivors. —Suman Naishadham, Los Angeles Times, 8 June 2026

Gardner has 15 years of experience in clinical strategy, patient advocacy, evidence generation, medical education and scientific leadership in neuromuscular and neuroimmunology diseases. —Samantha Gowen, Oc Register, 8 June 2026

When my advocacy team and I contacted Princess on your behalf, the company directed us to your travel agent. —Christopher Elliott, Mercury News, 8 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English advocacie "intercession," borrowed from Anglo-French advocassie "pleading," borrowed from Medieval Latin advocatia "patronage," from Latin advocātus advocate entry 1 + -ia -y entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing advocacy

• advocacy journalism

Kids Definition

advocacy

noun

ad·​vo·​ca·​cy ˈad-və-kə-sē 

: the act or process of advocating : support

Legal Definition

advocacy

noun

ad·​vo·​ca·​cy ˈad-və-kə-sē 

1

: the profession or work of an advocate

2

: the action of advocating, pleading for, or supporting a cause or proposal

a consequence of his moving advocacy

—W. O. Douglas