advocacy

UK: ˈæd.və.kə.si | US: ˈæd.və.kə.si

Definition
  1. n. public support for or recommendation of a particular cause or policy

  2. n. the profession or work of advocating on behalf of individuals or groups

Structure
advoc <support>acy <noun suffix>
Etymology

advocacy = advoc<support> + acy<noun suffix>

  • advoc (from Latin advocatus, meaning "called to aid" or "supporter")
  • acy (a noun-forming suffix indicating a state or quality, derived from Latin -atia)

Etymology Origin:
The word advocacy traces back to Latin advocatus, which combined ad- (toward) and vocare (to call). Originally referring to legal support (an advocate was someone "called to assist"), the term evolved to encompass broader public support for causes. The suffix -acy formalizes the abstract concept of advocacy as a state or practice.

Examples
  1. Her lifelong advocacy for human rights earned her international recognition.

  2. The organization focuses on environmental advocacy and policy reform.

  3. Effective advocacy requires clear communication and persistence.

  4. He transitioned from law to advocacy work for marginalized communities.

  5. Social media has become a powerful tool for grassroots advocacy.