Meaning & use

politicking

verb·Academic

Last updated

Engaging in political activity or discussion, often to gain advantage or influence, and typically viewed with mild disapproval.

See it in a sentence

Behind the scenes, party leaders spent the weekend politicking for votes ahead of the bill.

Employees grew tired of the constant politicking over who would lead the new division.

A note on using this word

Almost always carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting self-interested scheming rather than principled debate.

Words with a similar meaning

campaigningmaneuvering

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