# picket

/ˈpɪkɪt/ (US) · /pˈɪkɪt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/picket
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

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

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- 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 notes

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

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