Abscond Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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abscond

[əbˈskɒnd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

to leave hurriedly and secretly

Abscond means to leave hurriedly and secretly, typically to avoid detection or arrest. It implies a sense of fleeing or escaping, often with the intention of evading consequences.

Synonyms

bolt, escape, flee, run away.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
abscond	Used when someone leaves secretly and hides to avoid capture or legal proceedings, often implying dishonesty or criminal activity. He absconded with the company funds. The suspect absconded before the trial.
flee	This word is used when someone runs away from a dangerous situation, often implying fear or urgency. The villagers fled from the approaching army. He grabbed his belongings and fled the country.
escape	Used when someone succeeds in getting away from a place where they are confined or from a dangerous situation. The prisoners managed to escape from jail. She escaped from the burning building just in time.
run away	Common in everyday speech, this phrase is used when someone leaves a place or situation suddenly, often to avoid trouble or danger. She threatened to run away from home. The dog ran away when it heard the fireworks.
bolt	Often used when someone suddenly and unexpectedly runs away, suggesting an impulsive or hasty action. The horse bolted from the stable. She bolted out of the room when she heard the noise.

Examples of usage

He absconded from the scene of the crime before the police arrived.
The suspect absconded with the stolen goods, leaving no trace behind.
They feared that he would abscond if given the chance to escape.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

to depart in a sudden and secretive manner

Abscond can also mean to depart in a sudden and secretive manner, without permission or warning. It suggests a covert or stealthy exit.

Synonyms

depart secretly, slip out, sneak away, vanish.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
abscond	Typically used in legal or formal contexts to describe someone fleeing, especially to avoid law enforcement or capture. He absconded with the company's funds The prisoner absconded from jail last night
depart secretly	Used when someone leaves a place quietly and without drawing attention. Slightly formal and less dramatic than 'abscond'. She decided to depart secretly to avoid any confrontation The spy had to depart secretly to complete his mission
sneak away	Informal and implies stealth and a desire not to be seen or caught. Often used in casual or everyday settings. We can sneak away from the meeting if it gets too boring She tried to sneak away without anyone noticing
slip out	Less formal and often used to describe someone leaving quietly and casually. It can be used in everyday situations. She managed to slip out during the confusion He slipped out of the party without saying goodbye
vanish	Used to describe something or someone disappearing suddenly and completely, often in a mysterious or magical way. The magician made the rabbit vanish He seemed to vanish into thin air after the argument

Examples of usage

She absconded from the meeting without saying a word.
The prisoner absconded from the jail under cover of darkness.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'abscond'

The word 'abscond' originated from the Latin word 'abscondere', which means 'to hide or conceal'. It first appeared in English in the early 16th century with the sense of 'to hide oneself'. Over time, it evolved to its current meaning of leaving hurriedly and secretly. The usage of 'abscond' has been associated with criminal activities and escape scenarios, highlighting the clandestine nature of the action.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,088 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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