picket
n. countable B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈpɪkɪt// UK //pˈɪkɪt// pick·et
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.
The workers formed a picket outside the factory gates.
Union members organized a 24-hour picket to protest the proposed wage cuts and job losses.
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'.