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golden parachute

1 of 1noun
/ˈɡoʊldən ˈpærəʃut/
Forms:golden parachutes
1

a financial compensation that is offered to a top executive in the event that their employment is terminated

The phrase "golden parachute" originates from the world of corporate finance and executive compensation. This idiom is used to describe a substantial severance package or financial benefits offered to executives if they are forced to leave their position due to certain circumstances, such as a merger, acquisition, or termination.

  • As the company faces a potential merger, the executives are concerned about the future of their golden parachutes.
  • The CEO negotiated a golden parachute in her contract to ensure financial security if the company undergoes a takeover.
  • When the CEO resigned, he received a generous golden parachute as part of his exit package.