marching orders

American  

plural noun

1. Military. orders to begin a march or other troop movement.

2. Informal.

   1. orders to start out, move on, proceed, etc..

      We're just sitting by the phone, awaiting our marching orders.

   2. notice of dismissal from a position or job; walking papers.

---

marching orders British  

plural noun

1. military orders, esp to infantry, giving instructions about a march, its destination, etc

2. informal notice of dismissal, esp from employment

3. informal the instruction to proceed with a task

---

Etymology

Origin of marching orders

First recorded in 1770–80

Example Sentences

His marching orders came straight from his wife, which is why that gnome won’t go up on eBay—at not least for now.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

“Even if the executive order isn’t accomplishing its goals, it does come off as marching orders to the rest of the federal government to pursue related goals,” he said.

From Salon • Jan. 17, 2026

Senegal midfielder Gueye was given his marching orders by referee Tony Harrington in the 13th minute after putting his hand to Keane's face following an angry altercation.

From Barron's • Nov. 24, 2025

And thus Rob Pelinka, their newly minted president of basketball operations with a newly extended contract, has been giving his summer marching orders.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2025

One hour and fifty-five minutes after we get our marching orders, his face appears in the doorway.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen