From Susan M. Heathfield,
Your Guide to Human Resources.
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Definition:

The unscheduled time off from work that occurs when an employee is not present at work during a normally scheduled work period

Absences are generally compensated when their frequency and rationale fall within the guidelines established in the organization's attendance policy. These compensated absences may depend upon certain required employee actions such as seeking permission for scheduled absences from work in advance, or calling in to report an unscheduled absence within organization timelines and expectations. Too many unscheduled absences can result in the termination of an employee’s employment. This is generally governed by the organization’s attendance policy.

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Also Known As: absenteeism, absent, not at work