Definition

Noun: A form of protest in which employees continue to perform their regular job duties at their workplace, but do so in a manner that disrupts normal operations, typically to oppose a management decision such as proposed layoffs, a factory closure, or changes to working conditions. It is a type of industrial action distinct from a strike, as workers remain on the job.

Usage

A "work-in" is used as a specific term for this protest tactic. It is typically a countable noun (e.g., a work-in, several work-ins). It describes the event or period of the protest itself.

Examples

• The union organized a work-in to protest the planned closure of the shipyard.
• During the work-in, employees occupied the factory and continued production without managerial supervision.
• The successful work-in lasted for six weeks and ultimately saved the plant from shutting down.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used in a hyphenated form ("work-in") or, less commonly, as a single word ("workin").
• It can function attributively as a noun modifier (e.g., , ).

Variants and Related Words

• Sit-in: A form of protest in which participants occupy a space and refuse to leave. While similar, a "sit-in" does not necessarily involve continuing productive work.
• Strike: A work stoppage initiated by employees as a protest. This is the more common antonym, as workers leave the job.
• Slowdown: A protest where workers deliberately reduce their output or efficiency while remaining on the job.

Synonyms

• Occupation (in an industrial context)
• Worker occupation

Related Phrases/Idioms

• To stage/hold a work-in: This is the standard verb collocation for initiating this action.
  • The staff voted to stage a work-in.

Noun

1. occasion when workers continue to work as a protest against e.g. proposed dismissal or closure of the factory