Meaning
Go away without permission, notice or a proper farewell. Often mildly disapproving and sometimes humorous. It can describe either a social departure or an unauthorized absence from duty. Regional use: United Kingdom; also known internationally.
Origin
English examples occur in the mid-18th century, initially for leaving a social gathering without taking formal leave of the host. The military sense of unauthorized absence developed later. The name reflects an English stereotype about French manners, not a demonstrated French custom; the reciprocal French expression filer a l'anglaise is later evidence and does not settle the origin.
Research Sources
References used to check this entry’s meaning, history, or documented forms.
Variants
- Be absent on French leave
- French leave
- Go on French leave
Usage Examples
- Ruth took French leave before the speeches began and slipped out by the kitchen door.
- A technician who takes French leave during the night shift can expect a difficult meeting in the morning.