canvassing

[kan-vuh-sing]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of canvassing¹

canvass ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Crime was one of the issues, and while canvassing a neighborhood, Fonda found this woman unwilling to open all of her door.

From Los Angeles Times

In recent weeks civic groups have been relentlessly flooding social media platforms and pounding the streets canvassing for votes.

From BBC

Mr Deng told the BBC that while out canvassing, he and his team mates had been assaulted or pushed around by residents opposing the vote.

From BBC

According to club leadership, its power comes down to the club’s ability to mobilize a volunteer force for canvassing purposes.

From Salon

Several plainclothes officers were in the area Tuesday canvassing local businesses for witnesses and security camera video.

From Los Angeles Times