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

The left-wing organization, which has about 5,000 members, is known for running strong ground game campaigns that include canvassing, door-knocking and phone banking.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 22, 2026

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

As we approached one of Oli's canvassing rallies, we see families crowded around him, offering their toddlers for him to hold.

From BBC • Mar. 2, 2026

Quickly canvassing the room, they come up with the first solid leads about Lincoln’s murder.

From "Lincoln's Last Days: The Shocking Assassination that Changed America Forever" by Bill O'Reilly