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View synonyms for French leave

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
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Word History and Origins

Origin of French leave1

First recorded in 1765–75
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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
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Example Sentences

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

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