Walking Papers

Pronunciation: /ˈwɔːkɪŋ ˈpeɪpərz/

Definitions of walking papers

noun a colloquial term for a notice of dismissal or termination from employment

Example Sentences

A1 He was given his walking papers after being caught stealing from the company.

A2 When the boss handed her walking papers, she knew it was time to start looking for a new job.

B1 After receiving his walking papers, he decided to take some time off to travel.

B2 She didn't take the news well when she was handed her walking papers, but she knew it was coming.

C1 Despite being given his walking papers, he remained professional and finished out his final days at the company.

C2 Receiving her walking papers was a wake-up call that prompted her to reevaluate her career path.

Examples of walking papers in a Sentence

formal After multiple warnings, the employee was finally given their walking papers.

informal I heard Sarah got her walking papers yesterday.

slang Looks like Mike is getting his walking papers soon.

figurative When the project failed, it was clear that the team would be receiving their walking papers.

Grammatical Forms of walking papers

• past tense: walked
• plural: walking papers
• comparative: more walking papers
• superlative: most walking papers
• present tense: walks
• future tense: will walk
• perfect tense: has walked
• continuous tense: is walking
• singular: walking paper
• positive degree: walk
• infinitive: to walk
• gerund: walking
• participle: walked

Origin and Evolution of walking papers

First Known Use: 1820 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The term 'walking papers' originated in the early 19th century in the United States.

Evolution of the word: Originally, 'walking papers' referred to a notice of dismissal given to an employee, implying they were to leave the premises immediately. Over time, the phrase has come to signify any notice of termination or dismissal.