Escape

Definition

Escape is a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to break free from confinement, danger, or an unpleasant situation. As a noun, it refers to an act or instance of breaking free, or a form of relief from a distressing situation.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈskeɪp/
• Respelling: ih-SKAYP

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈskeɪp/
• Respelling: ih-SKAYP

Etymology

The word "escape" originates from the Vulgar Latin "excappare," meaning "to get out of one’s cape" (ex- "out" and cappa "cape"). It entered Middle English from Old French "eschaper," retaining the meaning of fleeing or breaking free.

Derivatives

• Escapable (adjective)
• Escapist (noun/adjective)
• Escapism (noun)
• Escaped (adjective)
• Escapee (noun)

Synonyms

• Flee
• Evade
• Break free

Antonyms

• Capture
• Confine
• Imprison

Usage

The word "escape" is often used to describe actions where someone or something frees itself from an enclosure, danger, or unpleasant situation. For example, "They managed to escape from the burning building." It also has figurative uses, as in "Reading was his escape from reality."

Related Terms

• Evasion: The act of avoiding or escaping.
• Freedom: The state of being free from confinement.
• Release: The act of setting free.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To break free from confinement or danger: Refers to leaving a place or situation where one feels trapped or endangered.
  • Example: "The prisoner tried to escape from the cell."
• To avoid or elude capture: Describes the act of evading apprehension or restraint.
  • Example: "The thief escaped the police by hiding in an alley."
• To gain relief from an unpleasant situation: Used to express a mental or emotional release.
  • Example: "She escaped into a good book."

Noun

• An act or instance of breaking free: Refers to the event or action of escaping from a place or situation.
  • Example: "Their escape from the island was miraculous."
• A form of distraction or relief: Describes a mental or emotional break from reality or difficulties.
  • Example: "Movies provide an escape from daily life."