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Elope: meaning, definitions and examples

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elope

 

[ ɪˈləʊp ]

Verb
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

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

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.

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

Etymology

The word 'elope' has a fascinating history that dates back to the late 17th century. It originated from the Dutch word 'ontlopen,' which means 'to run away' or 'to escape.' Over time, 'elope' evolved to specifically refer to couples who ran away secretly to get married. This act was often associated with young lovers defying societal norms and family expectations. Today, eloping can still carry a sense of adventure and spontaneity, but it is also a valid choice for couples seeking a more intimate and personalized wedding experience.

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.