absenteeism

noun

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

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 district has seen a 15% reduction in absenteeism since the end of the pandemic. — Andy Sheehan, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026 The state has also created programs to address gaps in graduation rates, diversify the public school workforce, and reduce dropout rates and absenteeism. — Cameron Pugh, Christian Science Monitor, 10 Aug. 2026 Such breaks can reduce absenteeism, as students would often miss time in that window, Clark said. — Leslie Griffy, Mercury News, 6 Aug. 2026 Tools exist to track productivity fluctuations, absenteeism and other performance indicators for clues into employees’ state of mind. — Jennifer Lee, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for absenteeism

Word History

Etymology

absentee + -ism

First Known Use

1829, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of absenteeism was in 1829

Rhymes for absenteeism

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Browse Nearby Words

absentee ballot
absenteeism
absentee landlord
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Absenteeism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/absenteeism. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on absenteeism

Nglish: Translation of absenteeism for Spanish Speakers

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