getaway

get-a-way · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An escape, especially by a criminal from the scene of a crime.

  2. 2.

    A short vacation or trip, typically to a pleasant destination.

  3. 3.

    (as adjective) Used for or associated with an escape.

Forms

plural: getaways

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    getaway car — a vehicle used to escape from a crime scene
  • •
    weekend getaway — a short vacation over a weekend
  • •
    make a getaway — to escape quickly
  • •
    romantic getaway — a trip for couples

Related words

See also: escape, holiday, retreat, vacation
Synonyms: escape, flight, retreat, vacation

Etymology

From the phrasal verb get away, meaning to escape or leave. The compound noun developed in the 19th century, first referring to escape from pursuit, later extending to vacation trips.