departure

noun

de·​par·​ture di-ˈpär-chər 

1

a(1)

: the act or an instance of departing

(2)

archaic : death

b

: a setting out (as on a new course)

2

: divergence sense 2

a departure from tradition

Synonyms

• departing
• exodus
• flight
• evacuation
• leave
• withdrawal
• going
• exiting
• parting
• exit

Examples of departure in a Sentence

What is your time of departure?

You should plan to arrive at the airport an hour before departure.

a schedule of arrivals and departures

The departures of several key employees have caused problems for the company.

her sudden departure from the company

The team has struggled since the departure of its head coach.

His previous movies have all been comedies, so this dramatic role is a real departure for him.

Recent Examples on the Web

If time permits, lock your home upon departure and disconnect utilities and appliances. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 9 July 2025

Yes, the departures from last year’s title team now include Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porziņģis, Luke Kornet and most likely Al Horford. —Steve Buckley, New York Times, 9 July 2025

The allegations were a key factor in Newey’s departure. —Kanzah Maktoum, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025

Several weeks after her departure, she was awarded the Pulitzer Prize. —David McGrath, Chicago Tribune, 8 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a(1)

Phrases Containing departure

• departure/arrival time
• point of departure
• pre-departure

Rhymes for departure

• marcher

Kids Definition

departure

noun

de·​par·​ture di-ˈpär-chər 

1

: the act of going away

2

: a setting out (as on a new course)

3

: a change from a usual course or standard

a departure from tradition

Legal Definition

departure

noun

de·​par·​ture

: a failure to follow : a deviation from a course or standard

an upward departure from the sentencing guidelines