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Elope: meaning, definitions and examples

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elope

 

[ɪˈləʊp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

run away secretly to get married

Elope means to run away secretly in order to get married, usually without the knowledge or approval of one's family or society. This act is often done to avoid the formalities and restrictions of a traditional wedding ceremony. Elopements are typically characterized by spontaneity and a sense of adventure.

Synonyms

abscond, escape, run away.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
elope

Used when a couple runs away to get married in secret, often without parental consent.

  • They decided to elope to avoid the hassle of a big wedding.
  • The young lovers eloped to Las Vegas.
run away

Used when someone leaves a place or situation secretly because they are unhappy, often used for children or teenagers leaving home without permission.

  • The teenager threatened to run away from home after an argument with her parents.
  • The dog tried to run away but was caught by the neighbors.
escape

Used when someone manages to get free from confinement, danger, or an unpleasant situation.

  • The prisoners managed to escape from the heavily guarded facility.
  • She needed to escape the stresses of everyday life.
abscond

Used in situations where someone leaves hurriedly and secretly to avoid detection or arrest, often associated with a negative or criminal context.

  • The thief absconded with the stolen jewels.
  • He absconded from the country to avoid prosecution.

Examples of usage

  • They decided to elope to Las Vegas and get married in a small chapel.
  • The young couple eloped to avoid the drama of their families.
Context #2 | Verb

escape or leave without permission

Elope can also mean to escape or leave without permission, especially in the context of a romantic relationship. It implies a sense of rebellion or defiance against authority or societal norms. This usage of the word is less common than the specific meaning related to getting married.

Synonyms

abscond, escape, flee.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
elope

Typically used when a couple runs away secretly to get married without the knowledge or approval of their families.

  • They decided to elope to Las Vegas for a private wedding ceremony.
  • The young lovers planned to elope and start a new life together.
escape

Used when someone successfully leaves a place or situation where they are imprisoned, confined, or in danger.

  • The prisoners managed to escape from the high-security prison.
  • They had to escape the burning building quickly.
flee

Often means running away from danger, persecution, or an unpleasant situation. It includes an element of urgency or panic.

  • People had to flee their homes due to the natural disaster.
  • The suspect decided to flee the country to avoid arrest.
abscond

Generally implies leaving secretly, especially to avoid arrest or legal prosecution. It can also simply mean leaving hurriedly and secretly.

  • The cashier absconded with the day's earnings.
  • He decided to abscond to avoid facing the charges.

Examples of usage

  • She eloped from her controlling parents and started a new life in a different city.
  • The prisoner eloped from the jail under the cover of darkness.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the Old French 'esloper,' which meant to 'escape' or 'flee.'
  • It was first recorded in English in the early 19th century, describing couples running away to marry without permission.

Cultural Practices

  • In some cultures, eloping is seen as an act of rebellion against family expectations or societal norms.
  • Many modern couples choose to elope for simplicity, intimacy, and to avoid the stress and expense of a traditional wedding.

Literature and Film

  • Elope themes often appear in romantic literature, showcasing the idea of love conquering obstacles, such as family disapproval.
  • Popular films like 'The Notebook' portray eloping as a passionate act that underscores deep emotional connections.

Psychology

  • The decision to elope can highlight a couple's desire for autonomy and a unique identity as partners, separate from family ties.
  • Eloping can also reduce anxiety and stress, as it simplifies the wedding process and focuses solely on the couple's bond.

Statistics

  • A 2020 survey found that approximately 20% of couples in the U.S. considered eloping instead of having a traditional wedding.
  • During the COVID-19 pandemic, the rate of elopements increased significantly, as couples sought safer, more private ways to marry.

Translations

Translations of the word "elope" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fugir para casar

🇮🇳 भागकर शादी करना

🇩🇪 durchbrennen

🇮🇩 kawin lari

🇺🇦 втекти, щоб одружитися

🇵🇱 uciec, aby się pobrać

🇯🇵 駆け落ちする

🇫🇷 s'enfuir pour se marier

🇪🇸 fugarse para casarse

🇹🇷 kaçmak

🇰🇷 도망가서 결혼하다

🇸🇦 الهروب للزواج

🇨🇿 utéct, aby se vzali

🇸🇰 utiecť, aby sa vzali

🇨🇳 私奔

🇸🇮 pobegniti, da se poročita

🇮🇸 strjúka til að gifta sig

🇰🇿 қашып кету, үйлену үшін

🇬🇪 გაქცევა დასაქორწინებლად

🇦🇿 qaçıb evlənmək

🇲🇽 fugarse para casarse

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,999 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.