absence: Meaning and Definition of

ab•sence

1. state of being away or not being present: I acted as supervisor in his absence. Your absence was noted on the records.
2. period of being away: an absence of several weeks.
3. failure to attend or appear when expected.
4. lack; deficiency: the absence of proof.
5. inattentiveness; preoccupation; absent-mindedness: absence of mind.