1
as in lack
a state of being without something necessary, desirable, or useful
the absence of volunteers to be troop leaders is putting the scouting program in real jeopardy
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in shortage
the fact or state of being absent
in the absence of ferry service to the island, the ecotourists had to charter a plane
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of absence
In the absence of independent monitoring on the ground, the ministry is the primary source for casualty data relied upon by humanitarian groups, journalists, and international bodies.
—
Callum Sutherland, Time, 26 Sep. 2025
Steph White said her absence from practice was precautionary, and Hull is probable for Friday's game.
—Chloe Peterson, IndyStar, 26 Sep. 2025
Laureano’s absence also hurts the bench.
—Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Sep. 2025
In the absence of violent resistance, a police officer who decided to shoot a drug suspect dead rather than take him into custody would be guilty of murder.
—Jacob Sullum, Oc Register, 25 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for absence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for absence
Noun
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As the clock ticks, the lack of urgency in the nation's capital to keep the government's lights on stands in stark contrast to the consequences a shutdown may have for many Americans.—
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Stoner says that reductions in STI services at the state and local levels, as well as social and economic conditions such as poverty and lack of health insurance, have likely contributed to rising rates of syphilis, which in turn led to increasing rates of congenital syphilis.—
Noun
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The water system is in most urgent need of financial help, according to the IBA, largely due to the rising costs of buying water from the San Diego County Water Authority and the lack of regular rate hikes prior to 2023.—
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That should put you on track to find the ideal laser or ink tank printer for your needs.—
Cite this Entry
“Absence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/absence. Accessed 1 Oct. 2025.
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