English Reference
Noun

picket

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈpɪkɪt/ UK /pˈɪkɪt/ pick·et UK spelling picketed, pickets Military

n.a person or group of people standing outside a workplace to protest or stop others from entering during a strike.

n.a person or group of people stationed outside a place of employment to protest or dissuade others from entering during a labour dispute. Often used in the context of industrial action or political demonstrations.


SIMPLE

The workers formed a picket outside the factory gates.

CONTEXTUAL

Union members organized a 24-hour picket to protest the proposed wage cuts and job losses.

COMPLEX

Despite the freezing temperatures, the strikers maintained a peaceful picket, distributing leaflets to passersby and explaining the reasons for their industrial action.

Usage

Often used in the phrase 'on the picket line' or 'to cross a picket'.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated