1
as in lack
a state of being without something necessary, desirable, or useful
the absence of volunteers to be troop leaders is putting the scouting program in real jeopardy
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2
as in shortage
the fact or state of being absent
in the absence of ferry service to the island, the ecotourists had to charter a plane
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of absence
The honorary global success award will return after a six-year absence, having been awarded between 2013 and 2019.
—
Thomas Smith, Billboard, 10 Feb. 2025
Due to the number of absences and flu trends reported this week, Knox County Schools will be closed on Monday, February 10, and Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
—Justin Gest, Newsweek, 10 Feb. 2025
Dan Snyder’s absence has immediately and dramatically reset the balance of power in the division.
—Pioneer Press, Twin Cities, 8 Feb. 2025
These accommodations empower expecting employees to prioritize their own health and attend crucial prenatal appointments without the burden of extended absences or significant disruptions to their workflow.
—Rebecca L. Palmer, Orlando Sentinel, 8 Feb. 2025
See all Example Sentences for absence 
Thomas Smith, Billboard, 10 Feb. 2025
Due to the number of absences and flu trends reported this week, Knox County Schools will be closed on Monday, February 10, and Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
—Justin Gest, Newsweek, 10 Feb. 2025
Dan Snyder’s absence has immediately and dramatically reset the balance of power in the division.
—Pioneer Press, Twin Cities, 8 Feb. 2025
These accommodations empower expecting employees to prioritize their own health and attend crucial prenatal appointments without the burden of extended absences or significant disruptions to their workflow.
—Rebecca L. Palmer, Orlando Sentinel, 8 Feb. 2025
See all Example Sentences for absence
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Cite this Entry
“Absence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/absence. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.
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