layoff

Definition

A dismissal of employees from their jobs because of tightened budgetary constraints or work shortage (not due to poor performance or misconduct).

Etymology

Deverbal from lay off.

Example Sentences

• "One of the muscles on the point of the shoulder was torn loose and it didn't need more than a glance to see that Mr. Hickey was in for a long lay-off. He wouldn't pitch again for quite a spell, if ever;"
• "But even the return of skipper Steven Gerrard from a six-week injury layoff could not inspire Liverpool"
• "After a ten-month layoff, during which extensive testing had taken place in conjunction with AEI, the 'Blue Trains' resumed full operation on October 2 1961, [...]."