a theory and movement of trade unionism, esp. in Europe between 1890 and 1920, in which all means of production and distribution would be brought under the control of federations of labor unions by the use of direct action, such as general strikes
A radical political movement that advocates bringing industry and government under the control of federations of labor unions by the use of direct action, such as general strikes and sabotage.
Origin: French syndicalisme, from (chambre) syndicale, trade union, feminine of syndical, of a labor union, from syndic, delegate; see syndic .