take leave Definition

leave²
noun

1. Permission to do something.

Thesaurus: consent, concession, authorization, allowance, dispensation.
2. Permission to be absent, especially from work or military duties.

Thesaurus: liberty, vacation, holiday.
3. Permitted absence from work or military duties.
4. The length of time this lasts.

Example: took a week's leave
5. old use
A formal parting or farewell.

Idiom: on leave

Officially absent from work.

Idiom: take leave

To assume permission.

Idiom: take leave of one's senses

To become irrational, especially suddenly and without any apparent reason.

Idiom: take one's leave

formal, old use
To depart.

Etymology: Anglo-Saxon leafe permission.