last-in, first-out

[ last-in, furst-out, lahst- ]

noun

1. an inventory plan based on the assumption that materials constituting manufacturing costs should be carried on the books at the market price of the last lot received. : LIFO Compare first-in, first-out.
2. Computers. LIFO ( def 2 ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of last-in, first-out¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

That may lead to a reversal of the typical “last-in, first-out” pattern that has been common in other downturns.

From New York Times

“We have a last-in, first-out labor market, and disabled people are often among the last in and the first out,” said Adam Ozimek, chief economist at the Economic Innovation Group, a Washington research organization.

From New York Times

The Star Tribune originally reported on the agreement’s “seniority-disrupting language” in June, saying that the last-in, first-out policy when it comes to handling layoffs had protected a higher percentage of white teachers.

From Washington Times

Because of funding cuts during the recession and “last-in, first-out” seniority rules, Melvoin was laid off and had to return as a long-term substitute teacher before he was officially rehired.

From Los Angeles Times

In Vergara, nine plaintiffs contended state statutes were biased against poor students because “last-in, first-out” teacher layoffs mean that, during a budget crunch, talented young teachers, who are more likely to be assigned to low-income areas, are laid off before less capable teachers with more seniority.

From Washington Times