canvassing

American  

[kan-vuh-sing] / ˈkæn və sɪŋ /

noun

1. the act or process of soliciting votes, subscriptions, opinions, etc., especially from individuals.

   Although social media definitely impacted their campaign, it was the door-to-door canvassing that made them successful.

2. the act or process of examining or investigating something carefully, often through debate or discussion.

   As we can see from even a limited canvassing of the issues in education, the challenges we face at this time come from within and without.

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Etymology

Origin of canvassing

canvass ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Eralp said she is modeling her campaign, with its focus on door-to-door canvassing, on New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

Sandra Ramirez, 63, smiles and cuts a friendly figure as she dances, waves flags, and gives speeches canvassing for votes in Bogota.

From Barron's • Mar. 5, 2026

The most common way people encounter giving opportunities is in-person requests or canvassing - meaning direct appeals at homes, religious sites or public spaces, rather than digital campaigns or formal fundraising drives.

From BBC • Feb. 19, 2026

Six months out from the Democratic primary in May, her campaign is already canvassing in Atlanta, Athens, Savannah and Norcross.

From Salon • Nov. 24, 2025

Malcolm X followers had been canvassing with growing anxiety for a Harlem church that would accept the Saturday funeral.

From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey