sweating system

American  

noun

1. the practice of employing workers in sweatshops.

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Etymology

Origin of sweating system

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

sweating system

But the lower grades of machine-made boots, and the "sew-rounds," i.e. fancy shoes and slippers, which form a large part of the industry in London, present some of the worst features of the "sweating system."

From Problems of Poverty by Hobson, J. A. (John Atkinson)

It covers the whole question of the employment of boys, women, old men, and half-supported persons, and includes the "sweating" system.

From Twentieth Century Socialism What It Is Not; What It Is: How It May Come by Kelly, Edmond

Mr. Hoar's resolution for an inquiry into the so-called sweating system of tenement labor.

From United States Government Publications, v. 8 Jan-Jun 1892 A Monthly Catalog by Compiled

Irregularity of employment, or, more accurately speaking, insufficiency of employment--for the "irregularity" is itself regular--forms one of the most terrible phases of the sweating system.

From Problems of Poverty by Hobson, J. A. (John Atkinson)

This special value of the trades-unions first became clear to the residents of Hull-House in connection with the sweating system.

From Twenty Years at Hull House; with autobiographical notes by Addams, Jane