An "ex-employee" refers to an individual who previously worked for a company or organization but is no longer employed there. This status can arise from various circumstances, such as resignation, termination, retirement, or layoffs. Ex-employees may retain certain rights, such as access to benefits or references, depending on the terms of their departure and company policies. The term is often used in discussions about workforce dynamics, employee relations, and human resources. Companies may maintain contact with ex-employees for networking purposes or to fill future job openings. Additionally, ex-employees can provide valuable insights into workplace culture and practices.