fundraiser

noun

fund·​rais·​er ˈfənd-ˌrā-zər How to pronounce fundraiser (audio)
variants or less commonly fund-raiser
plural fundraisers also fund-raisers
1
: a person employed to raise funds (as for an institution or political cause)
a talented fundraiser
… hired not only for his popularity with the other scientists but for his proven abilities as a fundraiser.James Shreeve
2
: a social event (such as a cocktail party) held for the purpose of raising funds
… he gained recognition by throwing a posh fundraiser for President Jimmy Carter.James Ridgeway

Examples of fundraiser 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 annual Fashion Awards event is a key fundraiser for the BFC Foundation, and the money goes towards supporting students and fashion talent through a variety of programs. Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 10 Nov. 2025 The most prolific fundraisers beating a trail to the Gulf — the private equity players and fund managers — are typically making their money on fees. Kelsey Warner, semafor.com, 10 Nov. 2025 As president, Smith oversees fundraisers to provide resources and support to Highland Lakes students and teachers. Erick Trevino, AZCentral.com, 10 Nov. 2025 After his death, Ritter’s widow, Amy Yasbeck, founded The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health, which hosts a gala fundraiser every year. Julie Tremaine, PEOPLE, 9 Nov. 2025 The online fundraiser for Gjoshe was quick to gain momentum once it was set up on Monday. Philip Buckingham, New York Times, 8 Nov. 2025 Organizers including the San Diego Fire-Rescue Foundation and Rotary Club of La Jolla are in the midst of a fundraising campaign that has included public meetings, a walk-through of the space and a private fundraiser this week. Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Nov. 2025 In the weeks afterwards, a flurry of fundraisers, memorials and an emotional funeral service were held. David Clarey, jsonline.com, 7 Nov. 2025 Over the decades, the annual gala has become more than a fundraiser. Donnetta Monk, Essence, 7 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of fundraiser was in 1881

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Cite this Entry

“Fundraiser.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fundraiser. Accessed 11 Nov. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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