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

He has led strikes on the three Detroit automakers and become a prominent voice in the wider labor movement.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 13, 2026

Many officials expressed a desire to continue honoring the wider farmworker labor movement, even while minimizing Chavez as an individual figure.

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 18, 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

Today, the U.S. labor movement is a shadow of its former self.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 15, 2025

But thanks to the strikes, there was a positive outcome for the labor movement as well.

From "1919 The Year That Changed America" by Martin W. Sandler