Quote by Ambrose Bierce
Absent, adj. Peculiarly exposed to the tooth of detraction; vilifed; hopelessly in the wrong; superseded in the consideration and affection of another.
Summary
This quote humorously defines the term "absent" as being someone who is easy to criticize, ridiculed, and completely dismissed from the thoughts and affections of others. It suggests that being absent can lead to being deemed worthless, as one's mistakes and flaws are highlighted by gossip or bias. Ultimately, the quote portrays being absent as a disadvantageous position where one is completely overshadowed or replaced by someone else.