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AWOL Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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AWOL

[ˈeɪˌwɒl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

absence without leave

AWOL stands for 'absent without leave', which refers to a military member who is absent from duty without permission. It is considered a serious offense and can result in disciplinary action.

Examples of usage

  • He was charged with going AWOL after he failed to report for duty.
  • The soldier went AWOL for several days before being apprehended.
Context #2 | Adjective

missing without authorization

AWOL can also be used as an adjective to describe something or someone that is missing without authorization or permission.

Examples of usage

  • The documents were found to be AWOL from the file cabinet.
  • The supplies went AWOL during the inventory check.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Impact

  • AWOL has been featured in various films and TV shows, often highlighting themes of rebellion or escape.
  • The term has entered popular culture, used in music and literature to express feelings of disconnection or freedom.
  • Some athletes have been labeled AWOL when they abruptly leave their teams, highlighting the term's relevance beyond the military.

Psychological Insights

  • Leaving without notice can often stem from stress or dissatisfaction, reflecting emotional or mental health challenges.
  • In organizations, employees going AWOL may indicate a lack of engagement or support within the workplace.
  • Studies suggest that feeling overwhelmed can push individuals to seek escape routes, even in structured environments.

Legal Consequences

  • In the military, going AWOL can lead to serious consequences, including court martial or discharge.
  • Civilian jobs also have policies against employees being absent without notice, which can lead to job loss.
  • AWOL is distinct from 'desertion', which usually indicates an intention not to return, making legal implications different.

Historical Usage

  • During the Vietnam War, instances of soldiers going AWOL increased significantly amid growing anti-war sentiments.
  • A significant number of Vietnam War veterans faced consequences for AWOL status due to the highly controversial nature of the war.
  • In recent years, the term has expanded to describe not only military personnel but also individuals in various fields who abruptly cease participation.

Origin of 'AWOL'

Main points about word origin

  • AWOL stands for 'Absent Without Leave', which is a military term for someone who has left their post without permission.
  • The term originated from military language in the early 20th century during World War I.
  • It became widely known in the U.S. military after World War II, often used to describe soldiers who went missing.

The term 'AWOL' originated in the military, where it was used to refer to soldiers who were absent from duty without permission. It has since been adopted into general usage to describe anyone who is missing without authorization. The acronym stands for 'absent without leave', emphasizing the unauthorized nature of the absence.