picketing

American  

[pik-it-ing] / ˈpɪk ɪt ɪŋ /

adjective

1. standing or marching, usually while holding a placard or sign, in front of a workplace, embassy, etc., as during a strike or demonstration.

   Local people have dropped off food supplies and newspapers for the picketing workers outside the plant.

2. Military, Navy, Air Force. acting as a guard in front of other troops or vessels to warn against an enemy advance.

   The enemy made us defend every inch, and it wasn’t long before our picketing troops ahead were engaged.

   The British squadrons had been weakened by the ambush on their picketing submarines.

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noun

1. the act of standing or marching with placards or signs in front of a workplace, embassy, etc., as during a strike or demonstration.

   Peace activists instituted regular picketing of the weekly cabinet meetings and held vigils throughout the country.

Etymology

Origin of picketing

First recorded in 1830–40; picket ( def. ) + -ing ² ( def. ) for the adjective senses; picket ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. ) for the noun sense

Example Sentences

Picketing writers on Friday expressed cautious optimism over the meeting with the AMPTP, saying they viewed it as positive step while stressing their resolve to continue striking if necessary.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 4, 2023

Picketing teachers said their main concern was educational and emotional help for students, especially those with special needs or learning difficulties that have been exacerbated by the pandemic.

From Washington Times • Sep. 14, 2022

Her Twitter bio notes that she is “Charged with Parading, Picketing & Protesting in DC on January 6th. Sentenced to 60 days prison for 2 mins 8 sec in doorway.”

From Seattle Times • Dec. 9, 2021

Picketing workers have since cut access to Cadiz's main industrial zone with bonfires and blockades.

From Reuters • Nov. 24, 2021

Picketing doubtless will continue, or an effort will be made to continue it; and militancy, if the police continue to arrest, instead of giving the women protection, will pass into a new phase.

From Jailed for Freedom by Stevens, Doris

Related Words

• advocacy
• involvement
• militancy