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 students turned their activism into a political movement and put forward a list of candidates to compete in the parliamentary election this year. — Elizabeth Shackelford, Chicago Tribune, 30 Oct. 2026 The rapper doubled down on his pro-Palestinian activism during the launch of his Free Palestine Tour, weeks after his controversial remarks prompted his removal from Ed Sheeran's lineup. — Lauryn Overhultz, FOXNews.com, 28 Oct. 2026 Immersed in a melting pot of Mexican, Filipino, African American, Japanese and Chinese working families, Huerta learned from her mother — who owned a restaurant and hotel — about independence, compassion and activism. — CBS News, 28 Oct. 2026 In addition to pesticide regulation, Huerta’s recent activism in Sacramento centered on cuts to the state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, more commonly known as SNAP, or CalFresh in California. — Lizzie Kane, Sacbee.com, 28 Oct. 2026 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

Phrases Containing activism

Rhymes for activism

See All Rhymes for activism

Browse Nearby Words

activewear
activism
activist
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Cite this Entry

“Activism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/activism. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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