Definition

Noun: * Unauthorized absence from military duty: A military offense where a service member is absent from their post or duty without official permission or authorization. It is a specific term within military law and conduct.

Usage

This term is used almost exclusively in formal military, legal, or administrative contexts to describe a specific type of infraction. It is often abbreviated as AWOL.

Examples

• The soldier was charged with absence without leave after failing to return from his weekend pass.
• Being declared AWOL can result in severe disciplinary action, including court-martial.
• The report listed three personnel as being in a state of absence without leave.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metaphorically in very informal contexts to describe someone who is unexpectedly missing from a non-military obligation (e.g., "The manager has been AWOL from the last two meetings"). This is a figurative extension of the core military meaning.

Variants and Related Words

• AWOL (adj./adv./n.): The common acronym for "Absence Without Official Leave" or "Absence Without Leave." It functions as an adjective ("He is AWOL"), an adverb ("He went AWOL"), or a noun ("He is an AWOL").
• Desertion (n.): A more serious military offense involving the intent to leave one's duty or post permanently.
• Unauthorized absence (n.): A broader, more general term that can apply in non-military contexts.

Synonyms

• Unauthorized absence
• Unauthorized leave (less common)

Antonyms

• Authorized leave
• Official duty
• Present for duty

Noun

1. unauthorized military absence