LOCKOUT: A plant or factory that is closed temporarily, because it's owners are trying to gain a negotiating advantage over the employees' union. A lockout is commonly used by a company's management if they suspect the union is planning to strike. A lockout by management before the union strikes is much like a pre-emptive military attach that tries to hit the enemy hard, fast, and first. See also | union | strike | collective bargaining | bilateral monopoly |