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.
In 2022, Dorothy Wickenden visited Berry at his Kentucky farm, and reviewed his decades of activism. — Ian Crouch, New Yorker, 1 Sep. 2026 Critics say Wong’s case showed the authorities’ determination to silence prominent dissidents, chilling civic activism. — ABC News, 1 Sep. 2026 Art and activism in Cuba In 2013, the artist began following the activism of the Ladies in White, the mothers and wives of political prisoners in Cuba, who have become a symbol of peaceful resistance to the dictatorship by processing to Sunday mass. — Sarah Moreno, Miami Herald, 31 Aug. 2026 The multi-strategy fund made a name for itself through activism and manages roughly $80 billion. — Rohan Goswami, semafor.com, 31 Aug. 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 4 Sep. 2026.

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