Definition

A permit or authorization, typically written, allowing a student to leave the classroom or school building during class time, commonly used in American schools. In broader usage, it can refer to a pass or permission to be absent from a designated area.

Example Usage

The student needed a hall pass to visit the nurse's office during third period.

Origin

From 'hall' (referring to school hallways) and 'pass' (permission document), a 20th-century American education system term with no formal historical etymology.

Fun Fact

Hall passes have become obsolete or digital in many modern schools, replaced by electronic passes or mobile apps that track student movement.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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