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

More than 1,300 Encore Boston Harbor employees have returned to work after ratifying a new collective bargaining agreement, marking the end of a 63-day strike. — State House News Service, Boston Herald, 6 Nov. 2026

After missing the World Series, the Dodgers begin planning a 2027 amid uncertainty surrounding the looming expiration of the collective bargaining agreement between MLB and the players. — Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 30 Oct. 2026

The promotions were not part of the new collective bargaining agreement. — Verónica Egui Brito, Miami Herald, 30 Oct. 2026

Minor leaguers have their own collective bargaining agreement which remains in force. — Evan Drellich, New York Times, 29 Oct. 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