lobby

A lobby is a term used for two related but distinct concepts: an architectural space within a building and a form of political activity.

In architectural terms, a lobby is the entrance hall or foyer that serves as the primary reception and circulation area near a building’s main entrance. It provides access to other rooms or floors and often contains a reception desk, seating, signage, lighting, and connections to elevators or stairways. Lobbies vary by building type—hotels, offices, malls, cinemas, and theaters each require different layouts, materials, and security considerations. They are designed to manage crowds, guide movement, and create a first impression of the building.

In politics, a lobby (or lobbying) refers to a group or individual that seeks to influence public policy, legislation, or regulatory decisions. Lobbying activities may include meetings with legislators or officials, presenting research or expert testimony, organizing coalitions, and funding advocacy campaigns. Professional lobbyists and firms operate in many jurisdictions, and lobbying is frequently subject to registration, disclosure, and ethics rules to promote transparency and accountability.

Other uses of the term can describe public-facing spaces within large venues, such as theaters or conference centers, or the act of attempting to influence opinions in a social or organizational context. The word’s origin dates from English usage in the past several centuries, with the exact linguistic roots not definitively fixed.