Elude

Definition

Elude is a verb meaning (1) to evade or escape from something, especially in a skillful, clever, or evasive way; (2) to avoid capture, detection, or comprehension; or (3) to fail to be grasped, remembered, or achieved. It often implies agility, subtlety, or cleverness in avoiding pursuit or understanding.

Parts of Speech

• Verb (transitive; occasionally intransitive)

Pronunciation

American & British English

• IPA: /ɪˈluːd/
• Respelling: ih-LOOD

Etymology

Late Middle English (in the sense “delude, frustrate”): from Latin eludere “to escape from, mock, outplay,” from e- “out of, away” + ludere “to play.” The modern sense “evade, avoid” became established in the 16th century.

Derivatives

• elusive (adjective) — hard to catch, grasp, or define
• elusively (adverb) — in a manner that evades or avoids
• elusiveness (noun) — quality of being difficult to grasp or capture

Synonyms

• evade
• escape
• dodge
• avoid
• flee
• circumvent
• baffle (for the sense “escape understanding”)

Antonyms

• confront
• face
• encounter
• capture
• grasp
• understand

Usage

Verb: “The thief managed to elude the police after a lengthy chase.” / “Her explanation eluded me entirely.” / “Victory continues to elude the team despite their efforts.”

Related Terms

• Evade: To escape or avoid, often implying intentional effort.
• Avoid: To keep away from or prevent from happening.
• Dodge: To move quickly aside to evade.
• Escape: To break free from confinement or danger.
• Slip: To get away in a smooth, almost unnoticed manner.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To evade or escape from danger, pursuit, or capture, often skillfully.
  • Example: “The prisoner eluded the guards by hiding in the forest.”
• To avoid being grasped, achieved, or attained.
  • Example: “Success eluded him despite years of hard work.”
• To escape understanding, perception, or memory.
  • Example: “The solution to the puzzle continues to elude me.”