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family leave

American  

noun

  1. a leave of absence from work in order to have or take care of a baby or to care for an ailing family member.


Etymology

Origin of family leave

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Clubs can sign players outside of a transfer window if a squad member has taken maternity, adoption or family leave.

From BBC • Jun. 24, 2026

If choosing to adopt, players and coaches can be granted a period of leave that ranges depending on their child's age, while family leave is available for parents who are not the biological mother.

From BBC • Jun. 24, 2026

“Right now, the U.S. does not have a universal federal paid family leave program, and access depends on where someone lives or works,” she said.

From MarketWatch • May 21, 2026

Perks such as family leave benefits, bonuses and a clear route to a promotion keep workers engaged and around long term, the company’s ultimate goal, said McMillon.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 17, 2025

“But...but why? Can’t you just let me and my family leave? We won’t bother you. We’ll take nothing but the clothes on our backs. You’ll never see us again.”

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman

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