Retrenched: meaning, definitions and examples

job loss

Retrenched refers to the action of laying off employees, usually due to economic downturns or organizational restructuring. It indicates a reduction of the workforce in an effort to improve efficiency and cut costs. The term is often used in corporate settings where a company may have to reduce its staff to stay afloat financially. Retrenchment may also involve a reduction in employee benefits and other costs related to labor. It is a common term in human resources and labor relations.

dismiss, downsize, lay off, terminate.

Examples of usage

• The company retrenched several employees during the recession.

• After the merger, many workers were retrenched despite their years of service.

• The board decided to retrench some departments to lower operational costs.

• Due to financial losses, the firm had no choice but to retrench its workforce.