Allude

Definition

The verb "allude" means (1) to refer to something indirectly or casually; and (2) to hint at or suggest without explicit mention.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /əˈluːd/
• Respelling: uh-LOOD

British English

• IPA: /əˈluːd/
• Respelling: uh-LOOD

Etymology

From Latin alludere “to play at or upon,” from ad- “to” + ludere “to play.” Entered English in the early 17th century with sense of indirect reference.

Derivatives

• Allusion (noun)
• Allusive (adjective)
• Allusively (adverb)

Synonyms

• Hint at
• Insinuate
• Imply
• Refer to indirectly

Antonyms

• Mention directly
• State explicitly
• Specify

Usage

"Allude" appears in literary criticism, conversation, and analysis. Examples: "The poem alludes to ancient myths," and "She alluded to budget cuts without providing details."

Related Terms

• Refer: To mention explicitly.
• Hint: To suggest indirectly.
• Insinuate: To introduce by subtle means.
• Imply: To express without saying directly.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To refer indirectly or casually: Indicates making a veiled reference without detailed explanation.
  • Example: "He alluded to his past experience but didn’t elaborate."
• To hint at or suggest without explicit mention: Conveys an idea or fact subtly.
  • Example: "The speech alluded to recent controversies without naming names."