French leave

[ french-leev ]

noun
  1. Sometimes Offensive. a departure without saying goodbye, asking permission, or giving notice: During the Civil War, many men deserted or took French leave.Early in the wedding reception I had to take French leave to address a family crisis.

Origin of French leave

1
First recorded in 1765–75

Words Nearby French leave

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How to use French leave in a sentence

British Dictionary definitions for French leave

French leave

noun
  1. an unauthorized or unannounced absence or departure

Origin of French leave

1
C18: alluding to a custom in France of leaving without saying goodbye to one's host or hostess

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