organized labor

American  

noun

1. all workers who are organized in labor unions.

2. these unions considered as a political force.

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Etymology

Origin of organized labor

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85

Example Sentences

The coordinated teachers campaign in California takes a page from organized labor in other industries, including autos and hotels, said Rebecca Givan, an associate professor of labor studies and employment relations at Rutgers University.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 19, 2026

Today, every worker, unionized or not, enjoys safeguards that were once the crown jewels of organized labor.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 15, 2025

Four candidates made brief appearances before the party’s powerful organized labor caucus, trying to make the case that they would be the best choice for the state’s more than 2.4 million union members.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 1, 2025

Bass is expected to maintain strong support from her allies in organized labor.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2025

Burnham claimed the agreement was a victory for the exposition, but in fact the fair’s concessions were a breakthrough for organized labor, and the resulting contracts became models for other unions to emulate.

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