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

They had reached out to their local and state Democratic Party organizations asking how they might help — maybe doorknocking, or canvassing — but had not gotten a response.

From Salon • Mar. 28, 2026

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

After canvassing the street, he’d stand on the curb’s edge and look up at the house windows.

From "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith