yellow-dog contract

[ yel-oh-dawg, -dog ]

noun

1. a contract between a worker and an employer in which, as a condition of employment, the worker agrees not to remain in or join a union.

yellow-dog contract

noun

1. a contract with an employer, now illegal, in which an employee agreed not to join a trade union during his employment

Word History and Origins

Origin of yellow-dog contract¹

An Americanism dating back to 1915–20

Word History and Origins

Origin of yellow-dog contract¹

C20: from US yellow-dog anti-trade union, from yellow dog mongrel, contemptible person

Example Sentences

The "yellow-dog" contract spread and throve.

From Time Magazine Archive

Not only were injunctions by Federal courts to be severely limited but also the "yellow-dog" contract was to be legally exiled.

From Time Magazine Archive