absentee

noun

ab·​sen·​tee ˌab-sən-ˈtē 

: one that is absent: such as

a

: a proprietor that lives away from his or her estate or business

b

: one missing from work or school

absentee adjective

Examples of absentee in a Sentence

There were 10 sick absentees that day.

Recent Examples on the Web

Backers of the suit sought stricter adherence to Nevada’s absentee voting laws, especially in light of polls predicting a close race between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris in the state. —Kaelan Deese, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 28 Oct. 2024

Michigan absentee voting update Absentee voting is also underway in Michigan. —Clara Hendrickson, Detroit Free Press, 28 Oct. 2024

Early in-person absentee voting began Tuesday in the state, and as of Friday morning 292,702 people had voted, the Wisconsin Elections Commission said. —Mary Spicuzza, Journal Sentinel, 26 Oct. 2024

In addition to absentee voting, which is available in most states for those who won't be able to vote in-person on election day, some states also offer a vote-by-mail option for those who can't or do not want to vote in person. —Alexandra Schonfeld, People.com, 25 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Anglo-French abscenté "person holding property in Ireland but illegally resident in England," from past participle of absenter "to be absent," verbal derivative of absent absent entry 1

First Known Use

1537, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing absentee

• absentee ballot
• absentee landlord

Kids Definition

absentee

noun

ab·​sen·​tee ˌab-sən-ˈtē 

: a person who is absent

absentee adjective

Legal Definition

absentee

noun

ab·​sen·​tee ˌab-sən-ˈtē 

: one that is absent: as

a

: a proprietor who lives away from his or her business or estate

b

: a potential party to a legal action who is not present or does not have a representative present at a proceeding

absentee adjective