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book off

A Canadian English phrase meaning to call in sick or to officially notify one's employer that you will not be attending work.

ˈbʊk ˈɔfCurrent85 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
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#1·Apr 28, 2026

A Canadian English phrase meaning to call in sick or to officially notify one's employer that you will not be attending work. Commonly used in unionised workplaces and institutional environments in Canada. The phrasing implies a formal or procedural notification rather than an informal call.

She had to book off for the whole week after her surgery.
Origin: Canadian English phrasal verb; 'book' (to register officially) + 'off' (away from duty); standard in unionised Canadian workplaces. Editorial expansion authored on Slangora.
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#2·Apr 27, 2026

(intransitive, Canada) To call off from work.

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  • “I had the same problem until someone here on Bluesky suggested I use Bookvault for paperbacks. Pulled my book off Amazon and will be publishing with Bookvault ASAP. They have access to major distributors, so can reach bookstores, libraries, etc.”

    — Bluesky· May 2026
  • “ha! reminds me when I was preparing to move house a couple of years ago I managed to knock a Pauline Kael book off the top shelf and the corner of it struck me full in the face, just missing my eye. Luckily it wasn't a hardback.”

    — Bluesky· May 2026
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