Definition

Noun: * An organized attempt by workers to improve their status by united action (particularly via labor unions) or the leaders of this movement. This term refers to the collective, organized effort of workers to advocate for better wages, working conditions, rights, and benefits. It encompasses the historical development, activities, and leadership of labor unions as a social and political force.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The trade union movement was instrumental in establishing the eight-hour workday.
  • She has dedicated her career to the trade union movement, fighting for workers' rights.
  • The history of the trade union movement is marked by both significant victories and periods of struggle.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used to refer to the movement in a specific country, region, or industry (e.g., "the British trade union movement," "the trade union movement in the automotive sector").
• It often implies a broader social and political struggle beyond individual workplace disputes, connecting to themes of collective bargaining power, social justice, and economic democracy.

Variants and Related Words

• Labor movement (noun): A very close synonym, often used interchangeably with "trade union movement," especially in American English. It can sometimes have a slightly broader connotation, encompassing political activism and parties allied with workers.
• Unionism (noun): The principles, system, or advocacy of trade unions.
• Organized labor (noun): A collective term for workers who are members of trade unions.

Synonyms

• Labor movement
• Organized labor
• Union movement

Related Phrases

• Collective bargaining: The negotiation of wages and other conditions of employment by an organized body of employees (a union).
  • The strength of the trade union movement is crucial for effective collective bargaining.
• Labor rights: The legal rights and protections granted to workers.
  • The trade union movement has been a primary driver in the expansion of labor rights.

Noun

1. an organized attempt by workers to improve their status by united action (particularly via labor unions) or the leaders of this movement