Deadwood (noun)

1. The branches or trunk of a tree that is dead or no longer living, typically removed to promote the growth of other parts of the tree.
2. A person or thing that is no longer useful or productive, often used as a metaphor.

Origin:

A combination of the words dead and wood, which refers to the branches or trunk of a tree that is dead or no longer living.

Examples:

1. The deadwood was removed from the tree to promote new growth.
2. The deadwood was causing the tree to become unstable.
3. The deadwood was a fire hazard.
4. He was considered deadwood and was let go from the company.
5. The company was trying to get rid of its deadwood to become more efficient.