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Definition of layoff

layoff

/ˈleɪ.ɔːf/
lay · off
Plural:layoffs
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layoff Lexical Profile

layoff Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A temporary or permanent termination of an employee or a group of employees by an employer, typically for economic or business reasons rather than fault on the part of the worker.

Example

"The manufacturing company announced a major layoff affecting hundreds of factory workers."

2

A temporary period of inactivity, rest, or suspension of regular work or athletic competition.

Example

"After a six-month layoff due to a knee injury, the tennis player finally returned to the court."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

The closed compound noun 'layoff' (e.g., "a company layoff") should be distinguished from the two-word phrasal verb 'lay off' (e.g., "to lay off workers").

• Rhymes for layoff

• Nearby Words

layering
layia
layman
layoff
layout
layover
layperson

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Layoff. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/layoff
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