XAB'SENT, a.

1. Not present; not in company; at such a distance as to prevent communication. It is used also for being in a foreign country.

A gentleman is absent on his travels.

Absent from one another. Gen 31:49.

2. Heedless; inattentive to persons present, or to subjects of conversation in company.

An absent man is uncivil to the company.

3. In familiar language, not at home; as, the master of the house is absent. In other words, he does not wish to be disturbed by company.

, v.t. To depart to such a distance as to prevent intercourse; to retire or withdraw; to forbear to appear in presence; used with the reciprocal pronoun.

Let a man absent himself from the company.