lay off

(noun) the act of laying off an employee or a work force. Synonyms: layoff.

(verb) put an end to a state or an activity. Synonyms: discontinue, stop, cease, give up, quit, lay off. Example: "Quit teasing your little brother."

(verb) dismiss, usually for economic reasons. Synonyms: furlough, lay off. Example: "She was laid off together with hundreds of other workers when the company downsized."