ticket of leave

or ticket-of-leave

noun

, British.

, plural tickets of leave.

1. (formerly) a permit allowing a convict to leave prison, under certain restrictions, and go to work before having served a full term, somewhat similar to a certificate of parole.

ticket of leave

noun

1. (formerly in Britain) a permit allowing a convict ( ticket-of-leave man ) to leave prison, after serving only part of his sentence, with certain restrictions placed on him

Word History and Origins

Origin of ticket of leave¹

First recorded in 1725–35

Example Sentences

If I destroyed certain documents in my brother's possession—such, for instance, as a ticket of leave, which he had retained long after its expiry for the mere purpose, I firmly believe, of bringing pressure to bear on me—there would be nothing to show his identity.

From Project Gutenberg

After seven years he was released on ticket of leave.

From Project Gutenberg

After sixteen years' good conduct, the prisoner was entitled to a "ticket of leave," authorising him to settle within the jurisdiction of the island as a free colonist, coupled with the condition of presenting himself once a month before the superintendent of the settlement.

From Project Gutenberg

The thinker no longer had to obtain a "Ticket of Leave" from the Churches before he could inquire; he was free to investigate where he would and what he would.

From Project Gutenberg

Ticket of Leave Man, origin of, 207.

From Project Gutenberg