labor movement

noun

1. labor unions collectively.

   The labor movement supported the bill.

2. the complex of organizations and individuals supporting and advocating improved conditions for labor.

3. the effort of organized labor and its supporters to bring about improved conditions for the worker, as through collective bargaining.

   Their activities proved more harmful than helpful to the labor movement.

labor movement

1. The movement of workers for better treatment by employers, particularly through the formation of labor unions.

Word History and Origins

Origin of labor movement¹

First recorded in 1865–70