walking papers

plural noun

: dismissal, discharge

called also walking ticket

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Bally’s has given Tribune Publishing its walking papers, exercising a relocation option in an attempt to force the newspaper company to vacate its mammoth River West printing plant to make way for a casino. Robert Channick, Chicago Tribune, 13 Feb. 2023 As Marty gives Ike his walking papers (courtesy of Norman Horowitz, naturally), he’s got a new twinkle in his eye. Erin Qualey, Vulture, 10 Dec. 2021 Two days after the law took effect in January 2021, Jack’s Abby handed in its walking papers. Jon Chesto, BostonGlobe.com, 9 Feb. 2023 In a twist on the old refrain, Dallas’ failures have many fathers while its success was mostly orphaned the day Jimmy Johnson was handed his $2 million check and walking papers. Dallas News, 13 Jan. 2022 Nobody will be surprised, however, if Gabby and Rachel get tearful, and more men get their walking papers. oregonlive, 13 Sep. 2022 Not long after the European run, Wilson was given his walking papers. Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 26 Aug. 2022 Especially when a legend is given his walking papers. Richard Obert, The Arizona Republic, 27 May 2022 The zoo’s colorful peacocks, which freely wander the grounds showing off their iridescent tail feathers, would likely lose their walking papers and be moved indoors. San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 Apr. 2022 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'walking papers.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of walking papers was in 1825

Dictionary Entries Near walking papers

Cite this Entry

“Walking papers.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/walking%20papers. Accessed 1 Apr. 2023.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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