feather-bedding

feather-bedding

A union negotiates for feather-bedding to protect jobs.

Definition

Noun (uncountable, often used in labor contexts): - Restrictive labor practice: "feather-bedding" refers to the practice of limiting the amount of work that employees are allowed to do, typically to create more jobs or prevent unemployment. It often involves requiring employers to hire more workers than necessary or to pay workers for work not performed.

Usage Examples
  • (A labor practice of overstaffing to protect jobs.)
  • (A restrictive practice aimed at job preservation.)
  • (A practice that reduces efficiency to maintain employment levels.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to engage in feather-bedding": to deliberately limit work output or require unnecessary workers.

    • The contract was criticized for engaging in feather-bedding, forcing the company to pay for idle workers. (The contract included restrictive labor rules.)

  • "feather-bedding clause": a specific provision in a labor agreement that mandates such practices.

    • The feather-bedding clause required a minimum crew size for each train, regardless of actual need. (A clause that forces overstaffing.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Feather-bed (verb): to provide with comfortable conditions or to practice feather-bedding.

    • The government feather-bedded the industry with subsidies. (Provided excessive support.)

  • Feather-bedder (noun): a person or group that advocates or practices feather-bedding.

    • Union leaders were seen as feather-bedders by management. (Those who promote restrictive labor practices.)
Synonyms
  • Make-work: work of little value that is created to keep people employed.
  • Overstaffing: the act of hiring more workers than necessary.
  • Job preservation: the practice of protecting jobs through artificial means.
Related Idioms
  • "Feather one's nest": to enrich oneself, often through dishonest or excessive means.
    • The manager was accused of feathering his nest with company funds. (Enriching himself improperly.) Note: This idiom is not directly synonymous but shares the "feather" root.
Phrasal Verbs
  • None directly associated with "feather-bedding" as a noun. The verb form "feather-bed" is used as a single unit.