Flee - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Flee means to run away quickly from danger, a threat, or an unpleasant situation. It implies a sense of urgency and is often used in contexts involving escape or avoidance.
Definition:
To run away quickly from danger or a threat.
Synonyms:
escape, bolt, abscond, run away
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
confront, face
Common Collocations:
flee the scene, flee in terror, flee the country
Derivatives:
fleer, fleeing, fled
Usage Tips:
Use "flee" for sudden escapes; avoid for casual departures like leaving a room.
Common Phrases:
flee for one's life, flee the scene, take flight and flee
Etymology:
From Old English *flēon*, meaning "to run away," related to Dutch *vlieden* and German *fliehen*.
Examples:
- 1. The villagers had to flee when the volcano erupted.
- 2. He tried to flee from the police but was caught quickly.
- 3. Many refugees flee war-torn countries seeking safety elsewhere.
- 4. The thief fled the store before anyone noticed him.