Sabbatical

/səˈbætɪkəl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

a period of paid leave granted to a university teacher or other worker for study or travel, traditionally one year for every seven years worked.

After seven years of teaching, she took a sabbatical to conduct research in her field.

an extended period of leave from one's normal work or duties, often to pursue personal interests or relaxation.

He decided to take a sabbatical from his corporate job to travel around the world.

adjective

relating to a sabbatical, often indicating a break or rest from work.

The university offers a sabbatical policy that encourages faculty to recharge.

Late Latin 'sabbaticalis', from Latin 'sabbatum' (sabbath), referencing the biblical sabbath rest.

on sabbatical

Referring to a person who is taking a sabbatical from work or duties.

sabbatical year

A year-long break taken for study or travel.

academic sabbatical

A specific type of sabbatical taken by academics for research or study.

sabbatical leave

A leave of absence from work for an extended period.

hiatus

A break or interruption in continuity.

break

A pause or interval during which something is interrupted.

A break from life stress.

I'm taking a sabbatical to recharge and relax.

Time off for personal growth.

She called her sabbatical a soul-searching trip.