Severance

/ˈsɛv.ər.əns/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The act of ending a connection or relationship, especially a contractual or employment relationship.

He was offered a severance package when he was laid off from his job.

The state of being separated or removed.

The severance of ties with the organization was necessary for his personal growth.

Compensation provided to an employee upon termination of employment.

She received a generous severance upon her departure from the company.

The action of cutting off or removing something.

The severance of the branch was required to prevent damage to the house.

The act of dividing or splitting apart.

The severance of the land into parcels made it easier to sell.

Middle English: from sever + -ance.

severance pay

Compensation given to an employee upon termination.

severance agreement

A legal contract outlining the terms of an employee's separation from a company.

in severance of ties

To end connections with someone or something.

sever

To cut off something or someone.

severing

The act of cutting or separating.

Getting kicked to the curb

After the layoffs, he felt like he was just getting kicked to the curb.

Getting the pink slip

I heard the company is downsizing; I hope I don't get the pink slip.