The meaning of ABSENCE is a state or condition in which something expected, wanted, or looked for is not present or does not exist : a state or condition in which something is absent.

absence noun /ˈæbsəns/ [uncountable, countable] the fact of someone being away from a place where they are usually expected to be; the occasion or period of time when someone is away The decision was made in my absence (= while I was not there).

[uncountable, countable] the fact of somebody being away from a place where they are usually expected to be; the occasion or period of time when somebody is away

state of being away or not being present: I acted as supervisor in his absence. Your absence was noted on the records. period of being away: an absence of several weeks. failure to attend or appear when expected. lack; deficiency: the absence of proof. inattentiveness; preoccupation; absent-mindedness: absence of mind.