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
While the Mets still expect Holmes to pitch again before the season ends, his absence will be felt.
—
Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 16 May 2026
While Golden Tempo's absence shifts the Triple Crown outlook, the 14-horse field at Laurel Park offers excellent value.
—Geoff Clark Outkick, FOXNews.com, 16 May 2026
With two Canadian host cities and a home crowd to play to, that absence is conspicuous in a roster otherwise built around proximity to the action.
—Maureen Kerr, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026
Throughout Drake's career, the 39-year-old emcee has been open in his music about his tumultuous relationship with his father, including his parents' divorce and his absence from his life.
—Taylor Ardrey, USA Today, 15 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for absence
Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 16 May 2026
While Golden Tempo's absence shifts the Triple Crown outlook, the 14-horse field at Laurel Park offers excellent value.
—Geoff Clark Outkick, FOXNews.com, 16 May 2026
With two Canadian host cities and a home crowd to play to, that absence is conspicuous in a roster otherwise built around proximity to the action.
—Maureen Kerr, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026
Throughout Drake's career, the 39-year-old emcee has been open in his music about his tumultuous relationship with his father, including his parents' divorce and his absence from his life.
—Taylor Ardrey, USA Today, 15 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for absence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for absence
Noun
-
In England, the Women’s Super League’s commitment is attracting more and more talent to England, and at some point, Spain’s lack of investment in women’s football, not the club, will end up posing a problem for Barca — as seen in Arsenal’s triumph in the final over the Spanish side last year.—
Tamerra Griffin,
New York Times,
21 May 2026
-
The temporary restraining order has been extended due to the lack of service.—
KiMi Robinson,
USA Today,
21 May 2026
Noun
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Mental-health support is often discussed in broad terms, but meaningful progress happens when care is local, comprehensive and responsive to the unique needs of individuals and families.—
Maria Bledsoe,
The Orlando Sentinel,
17 May 2026
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Arrests and citations do nothing to address these needs.—
Shianne LeClaire,
Hartford Courant,
17 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Absence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/absence. Accessed 22 May. 2026.
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