Find Synonyms
layoff Synonyms
Another word for layoff
Choosing another word for layoff depends on context, so the 13 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
• noun (Context 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.
Usage Example
"The manufacturing company announced a major redundancy affecting hundreds of factory workers."
Strongest
redundancy
downsizing
Strong
furlough
dismissal
discharge
termination
retrenchment
• noun (Context 2)
A temporary period of inactivity, rest, or suspension of regular work or athletic competition.
Usage Example
"After a six-month hiatus due to a knee injury, the tennis player finally returned to the court."
Strongest
hiatus
Strong
break
time off
intermission
respite
sabbatical
Opposites of layoff
The opposite of layoff shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:
hiring
recruitment
retention
continuation
employment
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Layoff. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/layoff