Meaning & Definition of word "Truant"

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    Truant

    /ˈtruːənt/

    noun:

    • 1. A student who stays away from school without leave or explanation.
      • Example: The school principal was concerned about the number of truants in the district.
    • 2. A person who shirks or avoids work or duty.
      • Example: He was considered a truant from his responsibilities, always finding an excuse to avoid tasks.

    adjective:

    • 1. Habitually absent from school without permission.
      • Example: The truant students were called to the office for disciplinary action.
    • 2. Neglectful of duty; absent or missing.
      • Example: The truant nature of his attendance at meetings began to bother his colleagues.

    Etymology

    Middle English, from Anglo-French 'truant', present participle of 'truver', meaning to escape.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    truant officer:

    A person whose job is to ensure that students attend school.

    truant behavior:

    Actions characterized by skipping school or avoiding responsibilities.

    truant from school:

    To be absent from school without official permission.

    Related Words

    absentee:

    A person who is expected or required to be present but is not.

    skipper:

    One who skips or avoids something, especially school.

    delinquent:

    A young person who regularly participates in unlawful behaviors.

    Slang Meanings of truant

    Meaning: Cutting class.

    Example Sentence: He's been cutting class all week, acting like a total truant.

    Meaning: Playing hooky.

    Example Sentence: She decided to play hooky and be a truant for the day.