The phrase "give someone his or her walking papers" means to dismiss or fire someone from their job. The pronunciation of this phrase is /ɡɪv ˈsʌmwʌn hɪz ɔr hɜr ˈwɔkɪŋ ˈpeɪpərz/. The key sounds to note are the "w" sound in "walking" and the long "a" sound in "papers". This phrase likely originated from the practice of giving an employee an official document stating their termination and instructing them to leave the premises, a document that was sometimes referred to as their "walking papers."
To "give someone his or her walking papers" is an idiomatic expression that refers to terminating or dismissing someone from their employment, position or relationship. The phrase entails clearly conveying to someone that they are no longer needed or wanted, often due to poor performance, incompetence, or other compelling reasons.
The term "walking papers" originates from the early 19th century, when it was common practice for employers to issue a written notice or discharge slip to terminated employees. Such papers acted as formal proof that the individual was released from their duties or responsibilities. Consequently, the phrase has evolved to represent any situation where a person is forcefully deprived of their job or status.
Using this expression typically implies a sense of finality and permanence in the severance. It signifies that the individual has been unequivocally dismissed without the possibility of reconsideration or reinstatement. The act of giving someone their walking papers is often considered an assertive or decisive action taken by an employer, supervisor, or person in authority to terminate an association, effectively removing the individual from their position or role.
Overall, this idiomatic expression "give someone his or her walking papers" epitomizes the act of ending someone's employment or affiliation, making it explicit that the person is no longer welcome or required.