redundancy

Sometimes re·dun·dance

[ri-duhn-duhn-see]

noun

plural

redundancies 

1. the state of being redundant.

2. superfluous repetition or overlapping, especially of words.

3. a redundant thing, part, or amount; superfluity.

4. the provision of additional or duplicate systems, equipment, etc., that function in case an operating part or system fails, as in a spacecraft.

5. Linguistics.

   1. the inclusion of more information than is necessary for communication, as in those cars, where both words are marked for plurality.

   2. the additional, predictable information so included.

   3. the degree of predictability thereby created.

6. Chiefly British.

   1. the condition or fact of being unemployed; unemployment.

   2. a layoff.

redundancy

/ rɪˈdʌndənsɪ /

noun

1. 1. the state or condition of being redundant or superfluous, esp superfluous in one's job

   2. ( as modifier )

      a redundancy payment

2. excessive proliferation or profusion, esp of superfluity

3. duplication of components in electronic or mechanical equipment so that operations can continue following failure of a part

4. repetition of information or inclusion of additional information to reduce errors in telecommunication transmissions and computer processing

redundancy

1. Unnecessary repetition in speech or writing. The expression freedom and liberty is redundant.

Word History and Origins

Origin of redundancy¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; from Latin redundantia “an overflowing, excess,” derivative of redundāns “overflowing, abounding”; redundant

Example Sentences

Lara Chaplin, from Coventry UCU, said the university were "millions and millions pounds in deficit" and were all pulling together to try to reduce the deficit, but the senior leadership team was "making widespread redundancies".

From BBC

Defending its job evaluation process as "fair and transparent", the local authority said affected workers had been offered other jobs, voluntary redundancy or pay protection for six months.

From BBC

The union said more than 250 positions at the university have already been lost this year through voluntary redundancies and a further 13 could be at risk through compulsory redundancies.

From BBC

The overall number of employees has dropped from 1,100 to 700 in the past two years following controversial redundancies at United.

From BBC

In the statement the Chapter said it had "started a consultation process on possible redundancies".

From BBC

Related Words

• repetition