flee

flee · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To run away from a place or situation of danger or unpleasantness.

  2. 2.

    To escape quickly to avoid harm, capture, or an undesirable situation.

  3. 3.

    To move swiftly away; to vanish.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    flee for one's life — to run away to save oneself
  • •
    flee the scene — to leave quickly after something happens

Related words

Antonyms: approach, confront, remain, stay
See also: escape, fled, fleeing, run
Synonyms: bolt, escape, fly, run away

Etymology

From Old English fleon ("to fly, flee"), from Proto-Germanic fleuhaną, related to Old High German fliohan and German fliehen.