Labor Day

American  

noun

1. (in the U.S.) a legal holiday, commonly the first Monday in September, in honor of labor.

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Labor Day British  

noun

1. (in the US and Canada) a public holiday in honour of labour, held on the first Monday in September

2. (in Australia) a public holiday observed on different days in different states

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Labor Day Cultural  

1. A national holiday in the United States and Canada in honor of working people. Labor Day is observed on the first Monday in September.

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Etymology

Origin of Labor Day

First recorded in 1885–90

Compare meaning

How does labor-day compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• May Day vs. Labor Day

Example Sentences

May 1 is a public holiday in many countries to mark International Workers’ Day, or Labor Day, when workers’ unions traditionally rally around wages, pensions, inequality and broader political issues.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

So it is worth taking a moment to stare into the abyss and think through what the world—and your investment portfolio—might look like if the strait still isn’t open by Labor Day or by Christmas.

From Barron's • May 1, 2026

But the rumors that Trump died over Labor Day weekend have kept the spotlight on his health and physical appearance.

From Salon • Nov. 19, 2025

As Labor Day approached, jitters were growing within Jefferies.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 15, 2025

Today be Labor Day, though, a holiday for the rest a the world, so no class today.

From "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett