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

Unions have scored some high-profile victories, but any real resurgence in organized labor could be a long way off.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 15, 2026

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

Prior to that, he covered coal mining, organized labor, the civil and criminal investigations into Massey Energy’s Upper Big Branch Mine disaster and the trials of Jerry Sandusky and Bill Cosby.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 17, 2026

The project has also amassed broad support from organized labor, especially the region’s construction trade unions, which say it would create thousands of jobs.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 3, 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