collective bargaining

noun

: negotiation between an employer and a labor union usually on wages, hours, and working conditions

Examples of collective bargaining in a Sentence

The next round of collective bargaining is scheduled for September.

Recent Examples on the Web

The Congressional Black Caucus and the NAACP have also brought forward concerns that the bill does not allow Black athletes — who make up a majority of players in the football and basketball programs — into the collective bargaining process. — Christopher Buchanan, Los Angeles Times, 28 Sep. 2026

According to previous Bee reporting, one of the key issues in negotiations over a new collective bargaining agreement was the owners’ desire for a salary cap — which the players said was a non-starter. — Hannah Ruhoff, Sacbee.com, 28 Sep. 2026

By addressing many of the issues that could otherwise be subjects of collective bargaining, the legislation would significantly narrow what athletes and their potential unions could seek at the bargaining table. — Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 28 Sep. 2026

Her tenure was marked by major economic gains for the league and a new collective bargaining agreement, but she was criticized for her handling of player concerns. — Jessica Golden,alex Sherman, CNBC, 24 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

collective bargaining

noun

: discussion between an employer and union representatives over wages, hours, and working conditions

Legal Definition

collective bargaining

noun

: negotiation between an employer and a labor union usually on wages, benefits, hours, and working conditions see also bargaining agent at agent, bargaining unit, Labor Management Relations Act