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

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

As we make our way to the next block that we’ll be canvassing, people wave, or nod and say hello.

From "Betty Before X" by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renée Watson