absence

Universal Words noun 1 [U,C] ~ (from...) the fact of sb being away from a place where they are usually expected to be; the occasion or period of time when sb is away: absence from work * repeated absences from school * The decision was made in my absence (= while I was not there). * We did not receive any news during his long absence. seealsoLEAVE 2 [U] the fact of sb/sth not existing or not being available; a lack of sth: The case was dismissed in the absence of any definite proof. * the absence of any women on the board of directors OPPPRESENCE IDIOMS see CONSPICUOUS