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 initial collective bargaining agreement with Spirit Airlines and AFA-CWA took effect in 2007. —Paula Wethington, CBS News, 2 May 2026

In South Korea, thousands gathered near Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square for major labor rallies centered on collective bargaining and worker rights, but speeches also incorporated broader geopolitical messaging. —Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 1 May 2026

The league’s collective bargaining agreement strictly governs rookie contracts, from structure to value. —Daniel Popper, New York Times, 1 May 2026

Management and labor negotiate collective bargaining agreements that govern wages and working conditions and are immune from antitrust scrutiny. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 1 May 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