(thing) by instantkarma Tue May 29 2001 at 2:21:43
leave of absence
  1. noun. The period of time during which you are absent from work or duty. Synonym: leave Plural: noun. leaves of absence

  2. noun. A period of time taken from work or duty, typically without paid compensation. Compare: vacation, holiday, sabbatical leave

Source for (1) used: WordNet, Princeton University.
I like it!