Pink Slip

[keannu]

https://www.idiomsandslang.com/pink-slip/

Pink Slip
Definition: A layoff notice; loss of a job, typically because of layoffs
Example: You can also say “pink-slipped” —I was pink-slipped.

It seems to originate the fact that some companies used to give pink slips to people to be laid off.
Have you heard or used this idiom a lot?

 

[emsr2d2]

I've heard it but it's not used in BrE. I think I've only heard it in AmE contexts. A lot? No.

 

[GoesStation]

It used to be heard frequently in American English, at least in journalism. I haven't noticed whether it's become less common recently.

 

[Skrej]

As far as I know, it's still fairly common in AmE. I do suspect that usage is probably generational, though. As such, it will likely start to fall out of use before long.

 

[Tarheel]

I've heard it used as "got the pink slip" or "given the pink slip". Expect to hear "fired" more often.