Which term describes someone who is absent and has an active warrant out for their arrest?

The term that describes someone who is absent and has an active warrant out for their arrest is "fugitive." This term specifically refers to a person who is running away or hiding, often to avoid arrest, prosecution, or punishment. A fugitive is typically someone who has violated the law to the extent that law enforcement is actively seeking them for apprehension.

In this context, understanding the legal framework and definitions associated with different terms is crucial. For example, while "defendant" refers to an individual who is facing charges in a court of law, it doesn’t inherently imply that the person is actively avoiding arrest. Similarly, "escapist" suggests someone who escapes confinement, which may not necessarily relate to an active warrant. The term "absconder" often refers to someone who has left or is avoiding supervision under probation or parole but doesn’t explicitly imply a criminal warrant, thus making "fugitive" the most appropriate and accurate choice in this scenario.