[put] {sb} out to pasture
1
to retire someone due to their old age
The idiom "put someone out to pasture" is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century and It is thought to refer to the practice of retiring old or worn-out farm animals and allowing them to graze in a pasture. This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is forced to retire or is no longer useful or productive in their job.
- After years of dedicated service, he was put out to pasture and allowed to enjoy his retirement.
- He's been with the company for 40 years, but they're considering putting him out to pasture.
- If the company wants to bring in new talent, they may have to put some of the old guard out to pasture.
- She's been struggling to keep up with the demands of the job, and she may be put out to pasture soon.