# Combination of Masters ## Definition The tacit and constant agreement among employers not to raise wages above their actual rate, which Smith argues is the natural state of things and is everywhere a most unpopular action to violate, often conducted with silence and secrecy when attempting to lower wages below this rate. ## Source Chapter Book I, Chapter 8 ## Context Presented as the more effective side of wage negotiations, able to hold out longer than workmen due to greater financial resources and legal authorization for their combinations. ## Economic Domain Regulation ---