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

Whether Fain cements control of the union—including replacing foes on the board such as Mock and Boyer with a new slate of allies—has ramifications for the auto industry and the broader labor movement.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 13, 2026

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

State law also requires instruction on Chávez, the farm labor movement and the role of immigrants.

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 23, 2026

Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta founded the United Farm Workers and brought new life to the American labor movement, drawing national attention to the brutal working conditions and unlivable wages that agricultural workers experienced.

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 18, 2026

The fair’s capitulation pumped steam into America’s—and Chicago’s—already-boiling labor movement.

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson