The phrase "gave someone his or her walking papers" means to terminate someone's employment. The spelling of the word "walking" is /ˈwɔːkɪŋ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. It begins with the consonant sound /w/ followed by the vowel sound /ɔː/ as in "caught". The second syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɪ/ as in "sit" and ends with the nasal consonant sound /ŋ/ as in "sing". Overall, the pronunciation of "walking" is quite straightforward and easy for English speakers to manage.
To "give someone his or her walking papers" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of terminating someone's employment. When an individual is given their walking papers, it means that they have been informed of their dismissal from a job or position. This phrase is often used in informal or colloquial settings and can be traced back to the early 20th century.
The term "walking papers" in this context implies that the individual is being asked to leave the premises immediately, as if they are being physically escorted out with papers in hand. It signifies a sudden and sometimes unexpected end to a person's employment, suggesting that they are no longer welcome or needed in the organization.
The act of giving someone their walking papers typically follows a decision made by an employer or manager when they deem an employee's performance unsatisfactory, or when the company is undergoing restructuring, downsizing, or financial difficulties. This phrase carries a negative connotation, as it indicates the person's employment has come to an abrupt conclusion, often leaving them without a job, income, or livelihood.
Overall, the phrase "giving someone his or her walking papers" is a metaphorical expression that signifies the termination of employment and the sudden end of a professional relationship between an employer and an employee.