absenteeism

noun

ab·​sen·​tee·​ism ˌab-sən-ˈtē-ˌi-zəm 

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

Why attendance is the number to watch Even in a traditional school year, districts across Texas have been wrestling with chronic absenteeism since COVID-19. — Lina Ruiz october 8, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Oct. 2026

Address chronic absenteeism and declining enrollment by strengthening neighborhood schools, strategic consolidations with community input and adequate resources. — Claire Malon, Chicago Tribune, 8 Oct. 2026

Most organizations view turnover, absenteeism and workers’ compensation claims as outcomes for HR or EHS to manage, after the fact. — Allan Malcolm, Forbes.com, 1 Oct. 2026

As reported this month, chronic absenteeism is also down more than 8 percentage points since 2022, reaching its lowest level since the pandemic. — Joshua L. Michael, Baltimore Sun, 1 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

absentee + -ism

First Known Use

1829, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for absenteeism

• ageism
• deism
• theism
• manichaeism