# send someone packing

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/send-someone-packing
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To expel, eject, or dismiss someone; to send away, chase off, or force out; (from a job or employment position) to fire.

## Examples

- The manager decided to send the rude customer packing.
- When the employee was caught stealing from the register, the owner immediately sent him packing.
- After the consultant failed to deliver the promised results for the third time, the board of directors finally sent him packing without a severance package.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.