Definition
A temporary unpaid leave where employees remain technically employed but don't work or get paid, preserving benefits while saving the company money. It's the corporate equivalent of 'it's not you, it's the economy'—but actually, it's definitely the company's budget.
Example Usage
We're furloughing 200 workers for three months instead of doing layoffs, because apparently temporary poverty is more compassionate.
Origin
From Dutch 'verlof' meaning 'permission to leave,' originally military terminology for soldiers' leave from duty
Fun Fact
Furloughs exploded during COVID-19, with over 22 million workers furloughed in April 2020 alone, though many 'temporary' furloughs became permanent layoffs.
Source: Military leave terminology adapted for business use
Related Terms
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See “furlough” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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