lay off lay off /leɪ ɔːf/

verb

1. () Put an end to a state or an activity  ( give up , lay off , discontinue , cease , quit , stop )
   put an end to a state or an activity
    Quit teasing your little brother
   Quit teasing your little brother
   
2. () Dismiss, usually for economic reasons  ( furlough [ N. American] , lay off )
   dismiss, usually for economic reasons
    She was laid off together with hundreds of other workers when the company downsized
   She was laid off together with hundreds of other workers when the company downsized