# lobby

/ˈɫɑbi/ (US) · /lˈɒbi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lobby
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. entrance hall

noun · CEFR B1

a large open area just inside the entrance of a public building like a hotel or office.

For teachers: a large entrance hall or reception area in a public building, typically serving as a transition space.

- I will meet you in the hotel lobby at six o'clock.
- The architect designed the lobby with high ceilings and marble floors to create an immediate sense of prestige for visiting clients.

### 2. political interest group

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

a group of people who try to persuade the government to change a law or support a cause.

For teachers: a group of persons who conduct activities aimed at influencing public officials and especially members of a legislative body.

- The environmental lobby is pushing for stricter laws on plastic waste.
- The tobacco lobby has historically exerted significant influence over legislative processes through extensive campaign contributions and strategic networking.

### 3. virtual waiting area

noun · CEFR B2

a digital space where you wait for a video meeting or an online game to start.

For teachers: a virtual area in software applications where users congregate or wait before being admitted to a session or match.

- Please wait in the digital lobby until the host starts the webinar.
- Players often spend several minutes in the game lobby discussing strategy before the match officially commences.

### 4. to influence officials

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal

to try to persuade a politician or the government to do something.

For teachers: to conduct activities aimed at influencing public officials or the outcome of a specific vote.

- Local residents are lobbying the council for a new park in the neighborhood.
- Several non-profit organizations have begun to lobby Parliament for more comprehensive mental health funding in the upcoming budget.

Usage: Often used with 'for' or 'against' a specific policy.

## Examples

- I will meet you in the hotel lobby at six.
- The protesters gathered in the main lobby of the government building to wait for the official announcement.
- While the architectural lobby serves as a grand entrance for visitors, the political lobby operates behind the scenes to sway public policy in favor of corporate interests.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.