sweating system

American  

noun

1. the practice of employing workers in sweatshops.

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Etymology

Origin of sweating system

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

The more thorough my examination into the facts of the case, the more I am convinced that the sweating system is demoralizing the entire clothing trade, as it will every trade it touches.

From White Slaves; or, the Oppression of the Worthy Poor by Banks, Louis Albert

He worked actively against the sweating system, pleaded for European intervention in Macedonia, and was a keen supporter of the Licensing Bill of 1908.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 12, Slice 3 "Gordon, Lord George" to "Grasses" by Various

As the design of the sweating system is the elimination of rent from the manufacture of clothing, the "outside work" is begun after the clothing leaves the cutter.

From Twenty Years at Hull House; with autobiographical notes by Addams, Jane

Thus one of the most glaring evils of the sweating system is seen to form a distinct economic advantage in the workshop, as compared with the large factory.

From Problems of Poverty by Hobson, J. A. (John Atkinson)

It is not on record that any one ever found a good word to say for the "sweating system."

From Comrade Yetta by Edwards, Albert