noun
leave
Official permission to be absent or act.
She takes two weeks of paid leave after her surgery.
Etymology
Old English lēaf meant permission. This noun preserves that authorized allowance, including permission to be absent from work or duty.
More examples
- He is on medical leave until next month.
- Employees may request leaves of absence for family emergencies.
- The court grants leave to appeal the decision.
Forms
leave · leaves
Similar words
- permission
- Broader approval to act, without implying authorized time away.
- authorization
- Emphasizes formal approval for a particular action or access.
- furlough
- Often means temporary absence imposed by an employer.