Truant (8)
'truant' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for absent that I've seen before include "Not present or focused" , "Away" , "elsewhere" , "Forgetful, with mind on other things" , "lack of attention" .)
'truant' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for absentee that I've seen before include "Bunker" , "Person who should be present but isn't" , "skiver" , "He's not here!" , "One is not present when required" .)