sabbatical
suh-BAT-i-kul
/səˈbætɪkl/
A period of paid leave granted to a university teacher or other professional for study or travel, traditionally every seventh year.
Implies a longer, often paid, leave for professional or personal development, not just leisure. Historically linked to academic settings.
The story behind the word. The word 'sabbatical' has deep roots in ancient traditions of rest. It comes from the Greek word 'sabbatikos', meaning 'of the Sabbath'. The Sabbath, of course, derives from the Hebrew 'shabbat', meaning 'rest'. Historically, it referred to a break every seventh year, much like the biblical Sabbath day of rest. This concept was adopted by universities for professors to take a break for research or travel, usually after six years of service, hence the 'seventh year' connection.
Word relationships
- leave of absence: More general; a sabbatical is a specific type of leave of absence.
- research leave: More specific to academic research, while sabbatical can be broader.
- work: Engaging in one's professional duties.
- employment: The state of being employed.
Commonly confused with
- vacation: A 'sabbatical' is for professional or personal development, often paid, and much longer than a typical 'vacation'.
Collocations
- take a sabbatical
- on sabbatical
- sabbatical leave
- grant a sabbatical
Example sentences
- "Professor Davies took a year-long sabbatical to complete his book on ancient civilizations." An academic planning research.
- "After fifteen years with the company, she was granted a six-month sabbatical to pursue a passion project." A professional seeking personal growth.
Memory hook
SABBATICAL: Think 'SABBATH' for a long, purposeful rest. SABBATICAL = Seventh year rest.
When not to use
Do not use 'sabbatical' for a short vacation or sick day. It refers to a specific, extended type of developmental leave.
Fun facts
- The tradition of sabbaticals originated in universities, particularly at Harvard in the late 19th century.
- While traditionally every seventh year, modern sabbaticals can be granted at different intervals or durations.
Related words
Also appears in
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