at-will

American  

[at-wil] / ˈætˈwɪl /

adjective

1. being, relating to, or involved in a work agreement that the employer or employee may legally end at any time without notice or cause.

   Companies in this industry often use both contract and at-will employment options.

   Since they aren't at-will employees, they can only be discharged with cause.

   Even in at-will states, employers cannot fire you for discriminatory reasons.

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at will Idioms  

1. Freely, as one pleases, as in The grounds are open to the public and one can wander about at will, or With this thermostat you can adjust the room temperature at will. [1300s]

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Etymology

Origin of at-will

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

In 2017, Nicklaus terminated his employment agreement with the company but continued on an at-will basis.

From The Wall Street Journal

US employers generally have broad discretion to fire workers for any reason, as most staff are hired under "at-will" contracts.

From BBC

And the secretary’s power of at-will removal resolves one part of the panel’s constitutional flaw.

From Slate

Principals have tenure protections as teachers but are at-will employees as principals.

From Los Angeles Times

When there are layoffs, those who survive the cuts are reminded of the precariousness of at-will employment.

From New York Times

Related Words

• candidly
• openly
• voluntarily
• willingly