absences

Noun

absence (usually uncountable, plural absences)

1. (usually) A state of being away or withdrawn from a place or from companionship
   • Absence makes the heart grow fonder.

   Synonyms:

   absentia

2. (usually) The period of someone being away.
   • During Jane's absence, Mark will be taking charge.

   Synonyms:

   absentia

3. (usually) Failure to be present where one is expected, wanted, or needed; nonattendance; deficiency.
   • Harry Kane was an absence in that first half. He touched the ball 11 times despite Spurs taking 62% of possession.2018 September 15, Barney Ronay, “Finely tuned Liverpool are really getting into Jürgen Klopp’s groove”, in The Guardian
4. (usually) Lack; deficiency; non-existence.
   • He had an absence of enthusiasm.
5. (usually) Inattention to things present; abstraction (of mind).
   • absence of mind
6. (usually) Temporary loss or disruption of consciousness, with sudden onset and recovery, and common in epilepsy.

See all 7 meanings of absence