special interest

noun

: a person or group seeking to influence legislative or government policy to further often narrowly defined interests
especially : lobby

Examples of special interest in a Sentence

promised that as governor he would never be beholden to special interests
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.
One of the most hotly contested was over the deduction for state and local income taxes, of special interest to those living in New York, California and other large states. Ted Johnson, Deadline, 3 July 2025 At the end of the legislative session though, Elliott seemed more amenable to the board, praising lawmakers and Gov. Mike Braun for standing up to special interests and safeguarding TrustINdiana. Hayleigh Colombo, IndyStar, 2 July 2025 Many express themselves through special interest or personalized license plates. Selika Josiah Talbott, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025 As Madigan so skillfully proved over his decades in power, caucus leaders exert immense influence over members by doling out funds in their campaign war chests, bankrolled by those special interests. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 11 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for special interest

Word History

First Known Use

1906, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of special interest was in 1906

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Special interest.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/special%20interest. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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