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absence

absence /ˈæbsəns/ noun
plural absences
absence
/ˈæbsəns/
noun
plural absences
Britannica Dictionary definition of ABSENCE
[singular] : a state or condition in which something expected, wanted, or looked for is not present or does not exist : a state or condition in which something is absent
[count]
: a failure to be present at a usual or expected place
: a period of time when someone is not present at a place, job, etc.
see also leave of absence
◊ The saying absence makes the heart grow fonder means that you tend to like someone better when that person goes away for a time.

in someone's absence

: while someone is away
: in the place of someone who is not present