Eluded: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'eludere', which means 'to evade' or 'to escape'.
• The prefix 'e-' means 'out' or 'away' and 'ludere' means 'to play', hinting at a playful escape.
• The transition from Latin to Middle English saw 'eluded' take on its modern form with the same meaning.

Literature

• The term has appeared in classical literature, often to describe characters who cleverly avoid danger or capture.
• Famous literary figures like Sherlock Holmes have utilized the concept of eluding in their mystery-solving escapades.
• In poetry, the word is often used metaphorically to describe fleeting ideas or elusive emotions.

Psychology

• In psychological contexts, 'eluded' can describe memories or thoughts that are difficult to grasp, often tied to the concept of repression.
• Studies show that humans often elude painful memories by redirecting attention to other thoughts, illustrating the mind's defense mechanisms.
• The feeling of being eluded can also tie into anxiety, where individuals report that certain feelings escape their understanding.

Pop Culture

• The concept of eluding is prevalent in films and TV shows, particularly in heist or chase scenes where characters must evade capture.
• Video games often feature mechanics where players must elude enemies to progress or complete objectives.
• Songs frequently explore themes of elusiveness, often using the word to describe unattainable love or dreams.

Science

• In the context of animal behavior, certain species elude predators through camouflage or high-speed escapes.
• The term is used in discussions about knowledge eluding scientists, implying areas of research that remain unexplored or misunderstood.
• In physics, concepts can escape or elude comprehension until new theories and frameworks are developed.

With rank #18,642, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

• ...
• 18639 deft
• 18640 ulnar
• 18641 trawl
• 18642 eluded
• 18643 scaly
• 18644 executioner
• 18645 manning
• ...