absence

[ab-suhns]

noun

1. state of being away or not being present.

   I acted as supervisor in his absence. Your absence was noted on the records.

   Antonyms: presence

2. period of being away.

   an absence of several weeks.

3. failure to attend or appear when expected.

4. lack; deficiency.

   the absence of proof.

5. inattentiveness; preoccupation; absent-mindedness.

   absence of mind.

absence

/ ˈæbsəns /

noun

1. the state of being away

2. the time during which a person or thing is away

3. the fact of being without something; lack

Word History and Origins

Origin of absence¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin absentia; absent, -ia

Word History and Origins

Origin of absence¹

C14: via Old French from Latin absentia, from absēns a being away

Idioms and Phrases

• conspicuous by its absence

Example Sentences

The absence of quakes in certain areas suggests that sections of the plate have already detached, and the gap is gradually widening over time.

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The absence of widely available good alternatives to achieving financial stability means a bachelor’s degree remains the best shot at a decent financial life for many Americans.

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Despite the clear absence of an “imminent threat of death or serious injury” or “grave threat to life,” the U.S.

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Voters in southern and western regions that are historically pro-Gbagbo or pro-Thiam could shun the polls in the absence of voting instructions from their leaders.

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During her absence she went through a high-profile court case in London, where she was found not guilty of racially aggravated harassment of a police officer during a drunken night out.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• dearth 
• deficiency 
• drought 
• lack 
• omission