absenteeism

noun

ab·​sen·​tee·​ism ˌab-sən-ˈtē-ˌi-zəm How to pronounce absenteeism (audio)
1
: prolonged absence of an owner from his or her property
2
: chronic absence (as from work or school)
also : the rate of such absence

Examples of absenteeism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Board of Supervisors also reviewed chronic absenteeism rates across school districts in the county. Emma Hall, Sacbee.com, 17 Apr. 2025 The top goal in the district’s 2024-25 Local Control Accountability Plan is to enhance academic achievement and reduce chronic absenteeism for all students. Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Apr. 2025 This includes aggressively targeting chronic absenteeism — which is a significant barrier to learning — and improving math and reading proficiency rates. Beth Swanson, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2025 For employers, this access could reduce absenteeism. Noah Barsky, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for absenteeism

Word History

Etymology

absentee + -ism

First Known Use

1829, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of absenteeism was in 1829

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Cite this Entry

“Absenteeism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/absenteeism. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

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