Definition

Noun: A yellow-dog contract is a type of employment agreement, now illegal in many jurisdictions, in which a worker is required to agree, as a condition of employment, not to join a labor union.

Usage

This term is used almost exclusively in historical, legal, and labor relations contexts to describe a coercive and anti-union employment practice. It functions as a compound noun.

Examples

• The company's use of a yellow-dog contract was a major point of contention during the labor dispute.
• Legislation was passed to outlaw the yellow-dog contract, protecting workers' rights to organize.
• Historians note that the yellow-dog contract was a common tool used by employers to suppress unionization in the early 20th century.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used attributively (like an adjective) to modify other nouns, describing things related to this type of agreement.
  • Example: "The court reviewed the yellow-dog contract clause within the broader employment agreement."

Variants and Related Words

• Yellow-dog (adjective): Used to describe something related to or characteristic of such contracts or the principle behind them.
  • Example: "He refused to sign the yellow-dog pledge."

Synonyms

• Anti-union contract
• Ironclad oath (in a specific historical labor context)

Notes on Meaning

The term carries a strongly negative connotation, implying exploitation and the suppression of workers' collective bargaining rights. The phrase "yellow-dog" is derogatory, suggesting the worker is forced to accept a status as low or as loyal as a mongrel dog.

Noun

1. a labor contract (now illegal) whereby the employee agrees not to join a trade union