How Do You Spell GO AWOL?

Pronunciation: [ɡˌə͡ʊ ˈe͡ɪwɒl] (IPA)

The term "go AWOL" refers to a military personnel who leaves their post without permission. The spelling of AWOL is based on its pronunciation, which is /eɪˈwɒl/. The first two letters, "AW," are pronounced like the "A" in "day." The "O" is pronounced like the "O" in "hot," and the "L" sounds like the "L" in "doll." This word first appeared in the military jargon during World War II and has since been adopted into common use in civilian life.

GO AWOL Meaning and Definition

1. The phrase "go AWOL" is a colloquial expression that is mainly used in military contexts to describe an individual's unauthorized absence or departure from their assigned duty or unit without a proper leave or permission from their superiors. The term "AWOL" stands for Absent Without Leave or Absent Without Official Leave.

   When someone "goes AWOL," they deliberately and willfully disregard their responsibilities or obligations, severing their connection with their obligations or role within the military. They go unaccounted for both physically and administratively, failing to report for duty and neglecting to follow established protocols for leaves or permissions.

   Going AWOL is considered a serious offense and a breach of military discipline and regulations. It is typically punishable under military laws and regulations, which may result in strict disciplinary actions, such as demotion in rank, loss of pay, reduction in benefits, or even a court-martial. The severity of the consequences varies depending on the specific circumstances and the military branch involved.

   Outside military contexts, "go AWOL" can also be employed in a figurative sense to describe someone who disappears or vanishes unexpectedly and without notice. This usage portrays the idea of individuals deliberately abandoning or neglecting their assigned responsibilities, duties, or social commitments, regardless of the field or profession.

Common Misspellings for GO AWOL

• fo awol
• vo awol
• bo awol
• ho awol
• yo awol
• to awol
• gi awol
• gk awol
• gl awol
• gp awol
• g0 awol
• g9 awol
• go zwol
• go swol
• go wwol
• go qwol
• go aqol
• go aaol
• go asol
• go aeol

Etymology of GO AWOL

The term "AWOL" is an acronym derived from the military phrase "Absence Without Official Leave". It originated in the United States military during World War II. Soldiers who were absent from their assigned duty without obtaining permission or following proper procedures were considered to be "AWOL". Over time, the phrase "go AWOL" emerged as a common expression, used beyond the military context to describe someone who leaves or abandons their post or responsibilities without authorization.

Idioms with the word GO AWOL

• go AWOL To go AWOL means to be absent from one's duties or responsibilities without permission or explanation, typically in a military context. It can also refer to someone who has disappeared or gone missing without notice.