absenteeism

noun

ab·​sen·​tee·​ism ˌab-sən-ˈtē-ˌi-zəm 

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

Maternal deaths destabilize workforces by removing experienced employees, triggering absenteeism as families grieve, and creating labor shortages that cascade through global supply chains. —Sughnen Yongo, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025

Chronic absenteeism remains a significant concern, with rates higher than before the pandemic. —Mia Thurow, jsonline.com, 3 July 2025

The spike in chronic absenteeism is linked to undiagnosed mental health issues among students and the inability to build social skills when schools closed during the pandemic, Moore said. —Stephen Simpson, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025

These small changes can boost digital engagement, reduce absenteeism, and help retain some of an organization’s most experienced talent. —Chris Carey, Fortune, 21 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

absentee + -ism

First Known Use

1829, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for absenteeism

• deism
• theism