n. 1 (often foll. by to + infin.) permission. 2 a (in full leave of absence) permission to be absent from duty. b the period for which this lasts. by (or with) your leave often iron. an expression of apology for taking a liberty or making an unwelcome statement. on leave legitimately absent from duty. take one's leave bid farewell. take one's leave of bid farewell to. take leave of one's senses see SENSE. take leave to venture or presume to.
[ OE leaf f. WG: cf. LIEF, LOVE ]