verb

abscond

ab-SKOND

Abscond (verb) means to leave secretly and hurriedly, usually to escape custody or having taken something that is not yours. Example: “He absconded with the takings.”

verb

To leave secretly and hurriedly, usually to escape custody or having taken something that is not yours.

"He absconded with the takings."

"Two prisoners absconded during the transfer."

How to use abscond

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo run off secretly, usually with something or to avoid being caught.

When to use it

Formal and often legal.

Common pairings

abscond with absconded from custody

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

He _____ with the takings.

Etymology

From Latin "abscondere," to hide away, from "abs-" (away) plus "condere" (to stow).

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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flee bolt run off decamp

Related words

come run shut fly escape print lock screw

Frequently asked questions

What does abscond mean?

To slip away suddenly and secretly — typically to avoid arrest, escape custody, or make off with money or property.

What is the difference between abscond and escape?

Escaping is simply getting out. Absconding carries the added sense of doing it secretly and wrongfully, often while under an obligation to stay — bail, custody or a duty of care.

What is the meaning of abscond?

"abscond" (verb) means to leave secretly and hurriedly, usually to escape custody or having taken something that is not yours.

What is another word for abscond?

Other words for "abscond" include flee, bolt, run off, decamp.

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