picket line
Definition
Noun: 1. A line of people acting as pickets: A group of people, typically striking workers or their supporters, who stand or march outside a place of work to protest, persuade others not to enter, or to publicize a dispute.
Usage
The term "picket line" is used to describe the physical formation and location of protesters, most commonly in the context of labor strikes. It implies an organized, collective action.
Examples
- The striking workers formed a picket line outside the factory gates.
- Refusing to cross a picket line is a sign of solidarity with the strikers.
- The union members walked the picket line for several hours each day.
Advanced Usage
- To cross a picket line: To go into work past a line of striking workers, often seen as breaking solidarity.
- To honor a picket line: To refuse to cross it, showing support for the strike.
- To walk a picket line: To participate in the act of picketing.
Variants and Related Words
- Picket (n/v): An individual protester in such a line, or the act of forming such a line.
- Strike (n): The organized work stoppage during which picket lines are typically formed.
Synonyms
- Protest line
- Demonstration line
Related Phrases
- Picket fence: (Note: This is a completely different, unrelated compound word referring to a type of fence.)
Noun
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a line of people acting as pickets
