Golden handshake Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A large sum of money given to an employee when they leave a company, especially when they are forced to retire or resign.
Usage & Nuances
Used mainly in business and financial contexts; somewhat formal, often refers to executives or high-level employees. Usually implies the payment is generous. Do not confuse with 'severance pay', which refers to any compensation when leaving a job—'golden handshake' means unusually large or special compensation.
Example Sentences
He received a golden handshake when he left the company.
basic
Only senior managers get a golden handshake.
basic
The CEO left with a huge golden handshake.
basic
After the merger, several executives negotiated a golden handshake before departing.
natural
Rumor has it she got a golden handshake worth millions.
natural
They offered him a golden handshake he just couldn’t refuse.
natural