child labor

noun

1. the gainful employment of children below an age determined by law or custom.

Word History and Origins

Origin of child labor¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

The political system was indeed thoroughly corrupt, and the economy was a system of mass deprivation marked by financial crises, endless deflation, agricultural mismanagement, mechanized industrial cruelty, and child labor.

From Slate

Child labor laws — which do apply to social media creators — are not often enforced.

From Los Angeles Times

The numerous actors and performers detail excruciating details of drug and alcohol abuse, child labor exploitation and an industry rife with homophobia and exclusion.

From Salon

Department of Labor recently sued Hyundai over the use of child labor in Alabama.

From Los Angeles Times

Since then, American unions have successfully fought for 40-hour workweeks, the end of most child labor and other protections that are now enshrined in law.

From Salon