deadwood
word
Definition
'Deadwood' refers to branches or trees that are no longer alive, or, in a figurative sense, to people or things that are no longer useful or needed, especially in an organization.
Usage & Nuances
Literal in forestry, but often used figuratively in business for staff or items seen as unnecessary. Usually neutral or mildly negative. Common collocations: 'cut the deadwood', 'remove deadwood'. Not used about physical death.
Example Sentences
We need to remove the deadwood from the team to improve performance.
basic
Several deadwood branches fell during the storm.
basic
The manager wants to cut the deadwood from the company.
basic
After the reorganization, a lot of deadwood was let go from the department.
natural
If we don't get rid of the deadwood, our progress will slow down.
natural
They finally cleared out all the deadwood cluttering the project.
natural