Where does the term scab come from?
Derived from the Old English sceabb and the Old Norse skabb (both meaning “scab, itch”), the word “scab” had become an insult by the late 1500s, having adopted a secondary definition that meant “a lowlife“.
Why are strike nurses called scabs?
Hughes notes that the use of the term scab can be traced back to the Elizabethan era in England, and is much more clearly rooted in the concept of disease (e.g., a diseased person) and a sickened appearance. A traditional English proverb, which advises against gossip, is “He that is a blab is a scab”.
Why are picket crossers called scabs?
The term “scab” was first used in the 13th century to mean a nasty, itchy skin disease or the crust that forms on a wound. By 1806, the word “scab” arrived at its current meaning — a strikebreaker who willingly crosses the picket line [source: Lexicon of Labor, Online Etymology Dictionary].
What does the union term scab mean?
Scabs is a derogatory name for union members who refuse to go out on strike or workers who are hired by businesses to replace striking workers. Often, the new employees were willing to work for less pay than the laborers whom they were replacing. Violence often erupted between the strikers and the scabs.
What is the medical term for scab?
The preferred medical term is crust or eschar, the latter being Greek for scab. The edge of an eschar can keep a wound from closing by secondary intention. And an eschar is a sign that a wound is too dry to heal as fast as possible. Having noted that, a crust is the best nature can do in many situations.
What do you call a person who refuses to join a strike?
strikebreaker. noun. a worker who refuses to take part in a strike, or a worker who does the job of someone who is taking part in a strike.
Is the term scab offensive?
The term “scab” is a highly derogatory and “fighting word” most frequently used to refer to people who continue to work when trade unionists go on strike action. This is also known as crossing the picket line and can result in their being shunned or assaulted. However, “scab” was an old-fashioned English insult.
When did the term scab originate?
1816
On this day in 1816 the term “scab” was coined by the Albany Typographical Union in reference to strike breaking. The National Labor Relations Act attempted to make strike breaking illegal.
What is eschar in a wound?
Eschar is a type of necrotic tissue that is dryer than slough, adheres to the wound bed, and has a spongy or leather-like appearance.
Why does a scab turn black?
As the damaged tissue regenerates, it pushes out the scab, replacing it with new skin. Typically, a scab is dark red or brown. As the scab ages, it becomes darker and may even turn black. A black scab typically does not mean anything more than the healing process is maturing.
What is it called when all employees go on strike?
An industrial action is any action which may affect the terms of a contract which is taken by workers acting together to compel their employer “to accept or not to accept terms or conditions of or affecting employment.” Examples of industrial action include a work to rule, a picket, an overtime ban or a strike.
What do you call someone in a union?
A union representative, union steward, or shop steward is an employee of an organization or company who represents and defends the interests of their fellow employees as a labor union member and official.