Military . a vacation or leave of absence granted to an enlisted person.

a usually temporary layoff from work

Many plant workers have been forced to go on furlough.

a temporary leave of absence authorized for a prisoner from a penitentiary.

to grant a furlough to.

to lay (an employee or worker) off from work, usually temporarily.

noun

layoff , leave , liberty , rest and recreation , rest and recuperation , rest and relaxation , r&amp , permit , vacation