(~s, ~ing, ~ed)
1.
If workers are given ~, they are told to stay away from work for a certain period because there is not enough for them to do. (AM)
This could mean a massive ~ of government workers.
N-VAR
2.
If people who work for a particular organization are ~ed, they are given a ~. (AM)
We regret to inform you that you are being ~ed indefinitely...
The factories have begun ~ing hundreds of workers.
= lay off
VERB: be V-ed, V n
3.
When soldiers are given ~, they are given official permission to leave the area where they are based or are fighting, for a certain period. (AM; in BRIT, use leave )
I was at home on ~.
N-VAR