1. the principle or policy of forming or belonging to a union, especially a labor union
2. support for the federal union of states, especially during the American Civil War
Usage: historical
3. support for the political union between Northern Ireland and Great Britain
Usage: British politics

Examples

• The factory workers embraced unionism to improve their working conditions.
• Her grandfather fought for the North, driven by his belief in unionism.
• The strike demonstrated the power of unionism in collective bargaining.
• Lincoln’s presidency was defined by his commitment to unionism.
• Ulster unionism remains a significant force in Northern Irish politics.
• The company tried to discourage unionism among its employees.
• Many historians credit unionism with preserving the United States as one nation.