advocacy

noun

ad·​vo·​ca·​cy ˈad-və-kə-sē 

: the act or process of supporting a cause or proposal : the act or process of advocating (see advocate entry 2) something

known for his advocacy of gay rights

Examples of advocacy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Patricia Wenskunas, founder of the California advocacy nonprofit Crime Survivors, which opposed the abolition of the death penalty, criticized Newsom's decision. — Arkansas Online, 6 Nov. 2026

The Women in Film Honors celebrates today’s leading voices in entertainment while supporting Women in Film’s career, advocacy, and research programs. — Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 6 Nov. 2026

According to reports in the British media, Harry and Meghan will deliver a joint speech on the issue—which has long been a focus of the couple’s advocacy—before participating in a discussion with international activists. — Stefania Conrieri, Vanity Fair, 6 Nov. 2026

Although, the text for some of the agreements have become available through litigation or Freedom of Information Act requests filed by advocacy groups. — Gabrielle Emanuel, NPR, 6 Nov. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English advocacie "intercession," borrowed from Anglo-French advocassie "pleading," borrowed from Medieval Latin advocatia "patronage," from Latin advocātus advocate entry 1 + -ia -y entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing advocacy

• advocacy journalism

Kids Definition

advocacy

noun

ad·​vo·​ca·​cy ˈad-və-kə-sē 

: the act or process of advocating : support

Legal Definition

advocacy

noun

ad·​vo·​ca·​cy ˈad-və-kə-sē 

1

: the profession or work of an advocate

2

: the action of advocating, pleading for, or supporting a cause or proposal

a consequence of his moving advocacy

—W. O. Douglas