labor movement

American  

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.

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labor movement Cultural  

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

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Etymology

Origin of labor movement

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

labor movement

As the the absurdist heist comedy unfolds, the shoplifters—or boosters—realize they can become part of a global labor movement.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 27, 2026

While working as a room service server at a hotel, he helped unionize his workplace and became active in the labor movement.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 1, 2026

I love her so much — she was a big part of our civil rights and labor movement.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 29, 2026

That raises the question: In today’s economy, where reasonable work hours, paid-time off and protection against unfair dismissal have become the norm for most workers, can a weakened labor movement survive and thrive?

From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 15, 2025

For someone so active in the labor movement, Raizel surely knew the risk we were taking just by coming here.

From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros