Definition

1. Noun:
   • The system, principles, and theory of labor unions: "Trade unionism" refers to the organized system, the foundational beliefs, and the theoretical framework supporting the existence and activities of labor unions. It encompasses the practice of workers joining together to collectively bargain with employers.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The history of the 20th century is deeply intertwined with the rise of trade unionism.
  • She is a strong advocate for trade unionism and workers' rights.
  • The new laws were seen as an attack on the fundamental principles of trade unionism.

Advanced Usage

• "The spirit of trade unionism": refers to the collective solidarity and shared purpose that defines the movement.
  • Despite the challenges, the spirit of trade unionism remains strong in the factory.

Variants and Related Words

• Trade unionist (noun): a member or supporter of a trade union.
  • He was a lifelong trade unionist.
• Unionism (noun): a general term for the principles or system of forming unions, often used interchangeably with "trade unionism" in a labor context.
  • The debate focused on the future of unionism in the modern economy.

Synonyms

• Labor movement: the broader social and political movement of workers and their organizations.
• Syndicalism (a specific, often more radical, theory of trade unionism).

Related Phrases

• Collective bargaining: the core practice arising from trade unionism where unions negotiate with employers.
  • Trade unionism is fundamentally about the right to collective bargaining.
• Workers' solidarity: a key principle of trade unionism.
  • The strike was a powerful display of workers' solidarity, the very heart of trade unionism.

Noun

1. the system or principles and theory of labor unions