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.
Sikh diaspora activism has been a source of tension between India and Canada for years. — ABC News, 7 July 2026 That’s part of how the history of the Davis market is woven together with community and political activism. — Kate Bradshaw, Mercury News, 7 July 2026 The gondola plan was Chastain’s 11th Kansas City petition in two decades of transit activism. — Dylan Lysen, Kansas City Star, 7 July 2026 Following a rival’s brush with financial activism, more reputable businesses were more likely to reduce their CSR initiatives. — Hadi Shaheen, The Conversation, 7 July 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

Rhymes for activism

See All Rhymes for activism

Browse Nearby Words

activewear
activism
activist
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Activism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/activism. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on activism

Nglish: Translation of activism for Spanish Speakers

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