absent without leave

adjective

1. military the full form of AWOL

Idioms and Phrases

Away without permission or explanation, as in Her daughter went to the mall but got in trouble for being absent without leave . The term and its acronym, AWOL , originated in the American military during World War I for soldiers absent from duty without permission (leave). It later was transferred to civilian situations, as in John didn't just cut his Tuesday classes; he went AWOL .

Example Sentences

He is furious about it, and declares that he will catch him and have him tried by court-martial for being absent without leave.

From Project Gutenberg

Beg pardon, Sir, beg pardon—rough soldier—lived away from the world so long, words slipped out of my mouth—absent without leave.

From Project Gutenberg

What was it to me whether or not he was absent without leave?

From Project Gutenberg

Frodsham came for orders, Mr. Menzies reported Glyde absent without leave.

From Project Gutenberg

He returned, was fined 25 for being absent without leave, and was reinstated in office.

From Project Gutenberg