Sherman Antitrust Act

American  

noun

1. an act of Congress (1890) prohibiting any contract, conspiracy, or combination of business interests in restraint of foreign or interstate trade.

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Sherman Antitrust Act Cultural  

1. A federal law passed in 1890 that committed the American government to opposing monopolies. The law prohibits contracts, combinations, or conspiracies “in the restraint of trade or commerce.” Under the authority of the Sherman Antitrust Act, the federal government initiated suits against the Standard Oil Company and the American Tobacco Company. (See trust busting.)

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Etymology

Origin of Sherman Antitrust Act

Named after John Sherman, who introduced the bill in Congress

Example Sentences

After the Sherman Antitrust Act, purposeful monopoly became formally illegal but remained difficult to enforce.

From The Wall Street Journal • Sep. 27, 2025

That case, filed on behalf of three new home sellers, also claims the practice of having home sellers pay sales commissions to buyers’ agents is a violation of the Sherman Antitrust Act.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 31, 2023

The Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890 was passed to protect competition.

From Scientific American • May 31, 2023

This, the complaint said, violated the Sherman Antitrust Act by limiting competition in the league and suppressing players’ pay.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2023

Holmes' statement came in a letter reflecting on the Sherman Antitrust Act, which he thought was a foolish law.

From Salon • Mar. 31, 2023