class action

American  

noun

1. a legal proceeding in which persons representing interests common to a large group participate as representatives of the group or class.

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class action British  

noun

1. law a legal action undertaken by one or more people representing the interests of a large group of people with the same grievance

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Other Word Forms

• class-action adjective

Etymology

Origin of class action

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

Newman said the class action was not about arguing Rightmove should not exist, as it has "an important function in the property market".

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

The online listing portal is now being pursued in a class action, launched by accountant Jeremy Newman on behalf of potentially hundreds of estate agents.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

Investigations for potential class action suits are common when a listed company’s share price tumbles, with entire legal practices devoted to similar types of securities fraud cases.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

By continuing, you agree to our Terms of Service, which include arbitration and a class action waiver.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 2026

Instead, at the end of 2002, Household settled a class action suit out of court and agreed to pay a $484 million fine distributed to twelve states.

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis