sabbatical

Sabbatical (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

IPA:

What does sabbatical mean?

A period of extended leave granted to a person from their regular work or duties, typically for the purpose of rest, rejuvenation, and redevelopment.
"He took a sabbatical from his job to travel the world."

Detailed Meaning of Sabbatical

A sabbatical is often used by academics, researchers, and professionals in various fields as a way of taking time away from their normal work routines to pursue interests, projects, or travel, or simply to recharge and renew themselves. Sabbaticals can range from a few months to a year or more, depending on the individual's needs and the policies of their employer or institution. During a sabbatical, the individual may engage in activities such as writing, research, teaching, training, volunteering, or exploring new areas of interest. Sabbaticals are seen as a valuable way of promoting creativity, innovation, and growth, and of helping individuals to avoid burnout and maintain their passion and motivation for their work or field.

Example Sentences for Sabbatical

1. She took a sabbatical from her teaching position to write a book.
2. He applied for a sabbatical to pursue his research interests.
3. She planned to take a sabbatical after 10 years of working in the company.
4. He took a sabbatical to spend more time with his family.
5. She decided to take a sabbatical to recharge and refocus.
6. He took a sabbatical from his law practice to volunteer in a developing country.

Origin and Etymology of Sabbatical

The noun 'sabbatical' has its roots in the concept of the Sabbath, a day of rest and religious observance in many cultures, including Judaism and Christianity. The term is directly derived from the Hebrew word 'shabbat,' meaning 'to rest' or 'to cease.' Over time, this religious observance gave rise to the concept of a sabbatical year, a periodic rest year mentioned in the Bible, during which agricultural work was to cease and debts were to be forgiven. From these religious origins, the term 'sabbatical' was extended to describe a period of extended leave granted to a person from their regular work or duties, typically for the purpose of rest, rejuvenation, and redevelopment. The etymology of 'sabbatical' thus underscores its association with rest and renewal, reflecting the idea of taking time away from one's usual responsibilities to recharge and grow.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun sabbatical:

continuation

persistence

break

return

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More Usage Examples of Sabbatical

1. She took a sabbatical from her job as an artist to study abroad.
2. He took a sabbatical to study a new language.
3. She planned to take a sabbatical to start her own business.
4. He took a sabbatical from his job to hike the Pacific Crest Trail.
5. She took a sabbatical from her job to become a yoga teacher.
6. After ten years of teaching, she finally took a well-deserved sabbatical.
7. During his sabbatical, he traveled the world to gain new perspectives.
8. The professor used her sabbatical to write a groundbreaking book.
9. He plans to spend his sabbatical working on a passion project.
10. The artist's sabbatical allowed her to explore different mediums.
11. A sabbatical can be a time for self-discovery and personal growth.
12. The company offers employees a sabbatical after five years of service.
13. Her sabbatical rejuvenated her passion for her career.
14. The scientist used his sabbatical to collaborate with international experts.
15. The sabbatical policy is designed to promote work-life balance.
16. The professor extended her sabbatical to continue her research.
17. Taking a sabbatical can prevent burnout and increase productivity.
18. He embarked on a spiritual journey during his year-long sabbatical.
19. Many universities encourage professors to take regular sabbaticals.
20. Her sabbatical was a chance to recharge and spend time with family.
21. The artist's sabbatical led to a series of innovative artworks.
22. The CEO decided to take a sabbatical to focus on her well-being.
23. During his sabbatical, he volunteered for a nonprofit organization.
24. The writer used her sabbatical to immerse herself in a new culture.
25. The benefits of a sabbatical extend beyond the individual to the workplace.