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Definition of presenteeism

presenteeism

/ˌprɛz.ənˈtiː.ɪ.zəm/
pres · en · tee · ism

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presenteeism Lexical Profile

presenteeism Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The practice of coming to work despite illness, injury, anxiety, or exhaustion, often resulting in reduced productivity and the potential spread of illness to colleagues.

Example

"Management is trying to discourage presenteeism by offering more flexible sick leave policies."


2

The practice of working longer hours than required or remaining at one's desk without being productive, typically due to job insecurity or pressure to appear dedicated.

Example

"A culture of presenteeism meant that employees felt guilty leaving the office on time, even when their tasks were finished."

• Rhymes for presenteeism

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the 1930s as a play on the word 'absenteeism', originally used humorously by Mark Twain in 1892, before gaining prominence in modern human resources and organizational psychology in the 1990s.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Presenteeism. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/presenteeism
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