Furlough definition

In America, Employment furloughs are forced, paid periods of leave used by employers as special measures during difficult economic times. They’re an alternative to layoffs and may be short-term or long-term, during which time workers on furloughs are often able to seek alternate employment. Furloughs are more common in the public sector, especially at the federal level and in schools, to help mitigate the effects of budget deficits.