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absence

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noun British English pronunciation: absence /ˈæbs(ə)ns/ 
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singularabsence
pluralabsences
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Related dictionary definitions

  1. 1
    [countable/uncountable] a period of time when someone is not where they should be or where they usually are

    His frequent and prolonged absences were making his wife suspicious.

    absence from:

    He returns to the England team after a long absence from international football.

    in someone's absence (=while someone is not there):

    Mark will be in charge in my absence.

    Thesaurus entry for this meaning of absence
    1. a.
      a period of time when someone is not at work or at school when they should be

      We are concerned about your child's frequent absences.

      Thesaurus entry for this meaning of absence
  2. 2
    [singular/uncountable] the fact of something not existing or not being present
    absence of:

    a complete absence of humour

    in the absence of something:

    In the absence of any contrary agreement, the firm accepts full liability.

    Thesaurus entry for this meaning of absence

This is the British English definition of absence. View American English definition of absence.

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