layoff
|lay/off|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈleɪˌɔf/
🇬🇧
/ˈleɪɒf/
temporary dismissal
Etymology
Etymology Information
'layoff' originates from the English phrase 'lay off,' where 'lay' meant 'to place' and 'off' indicated 'away or apart.'
Historical Evolution
'lay off' transformed into the noun 'layoff' in the 20th century, reflecting the act of dismissing workers.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to place away,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'temporary or permanent dismissal of workers.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a temporary or permanent discharge of a worker or workers due to economic conditions or lack of work.
The company announced a massive layoff due to declining sales.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45