French leave

[ french leev ]

noun

1. Sometimes Offensive. a departure without saying goodbye, asking permission, or giving notice:

   During the Civil War, many men deserted or took French leave.

   Early in the wedding reception I had to take French leave to address a family crisis.

French leave

noun

1. an unauthorized or unannounced absence or departure

Word History and Origins

Origin of French leave¹

First recorded in 1765–75

Word History and Origins

Origin of French leave¹

C18: alluding to a custom in France of leaving without saying goodbye to one's host or hostess

Example Sentences

Some of them took "french leave," and visited their friends over the river.

From Project Gutenberg