marching orders

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

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of marching orders¹

First recorded in 1770–80

Example Sentences

But the fact he has been given his marching orders now suggests the prime minister is feeling strong.

From BBC

"And apparently this was allowed because of marching orders from the top."

From BBC

“It is the talking point of AOC the other day, taking her marching orders from the DNC, that we are only running for president,” Stein said, before Rye responded with skepticism on her language choice.

From Salon

Enrollment has dropped below 200, but the superintendent for Catholic Schools in Los Angeles has given marching orders to Yeazel to get St. Bernard back on track.

From Los Angeles Times

These are the marching orders that President Obama and Michelle Obama have given.

From Salon