Definitions by Linguanalyst

hot potato 

n. A high-priority work task that top management is waiting for, usually involving the sequential efforts of multiple employees. It will burn anyone who holds onto it too long. Upon being assigned such a task, an employee's goal should be to complete their part and pass it to a colleague as quickly as possible, before suffering the wrath of management.

A hot potato just arrived in my inbox, so I'll have to work late tonight.

hot potato by Linguanalyst August 1, 2012