by-your-leave

[ bahy-yer-leev ]

noun

1. an apology for not having sought permission.

by-your-leave

noun

1. a request for permission (esp in the phrase without so much as a by-your-leave )

Word History and Origins

Origin of by-your-leave¹

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

The idea of going right into the pantry without a how-do-you-do 21 or a by-your-leave!

From Project Gutenberg

Two pompous, red-cheeked, red-necked individuals stepped forward, without so much as a "by-your-leave!"

From Project Gutenberg

Without a by-your-leave, Judy snatched up one from the top and bound it around the poor gory leg.

From Project Gutenberg

What on earth possessed Humphrey and Susan to take you off to a house like that, without a with-your-leave or a by-your-leave?

From Project Gutenberg

You come down here without a with-your-leave or a by-your-leave, and act as if you were master.

From Project Gutenberg