slacktivism

noun

slack·​tiv·​ism ˈslak-ti-ˌvi-zəm 

disapproving

: the practice of conspicuously showing support for a cause (as by posting on social media or hanging a flag or sign) without taking any real steps to effect change

So how do we help those kids? I mean, really help. Something beyond slacktivism.

—Jim Ross

The ice bucket challenge was taken as emblematic of "slacktivism," the derisive term for cheap ways to feel good without doing anything meaningful.

—Nicholas Kristof

Examples of slacktivism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The term slacktivism was coined to describe the desire to appear socially engaged without contributing materially, whether through a physical presence at protests or donations to needy causes. —Encyclopedia Britannica, 27 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

blend of slack entry 1 and activism

First Known Use

1995, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for slacktivism

• autism
• fascism
• racism
• sikhism
• statism
• sufism
• thomism
• tourism
• tropism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism
• americanism