(with definite article) Something absent, especially absent people collectively; those who were or are not there.

An absentee; a person who is not there.

Being away from a place; withdrawn from a place; not present; missing.

Not existing; lacking.

"The part was rudimental or absent."

(sometimes comparable) Inattentive to what is passing; absent-minded; preoccupied.

In the absence of; without; except.

"Absent taxes modern governments cannot function."

To keep (oneself) away.

"Most of the men are retired, jobless, or have otherwise temporarily absented themselves from the workplace."

To keep (someone) away.

Stay away; withdraw.

Leave.