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

There are in the Boston Public Library five ponderous volumes containing the evidence taken before a commission, appointed by the English House of Lords, to examine into the sweating system of Great Britain.

From White Slaves; or, the Oppression of the Worthy Poor by Banks, Louis Albert

The central labor body of Chicago, then called the Trades and Labor Assembly, had previously appointed a committee of investigation to inquire into the sweating system.

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

Atlas isn't keen about anything but the sweating system.

From Penelope's Postscripts by Wiggin, Kate Douglas Smith

Thus one of the most glaring evils of the sweating system is seen to form a distinct economic advantage in the workshop, as compared with the large factory.

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

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