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Definition of elopement

elopement

/ɪˈloʊp.mənt/
e · lope · ment
Plural:elopements
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elopement Lexical Profile

elopement Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The act of running away secretly in order to get married, especially without parental consent or a large public ceremony.

Example

"The couple's sudden elopement to a small courthouse surprised both of their families."

2

In healthcare and education, the unauthorized departure or wandering away of a patient, resident, or student from a supervised facility or safe area.

Example

"The memory care unit installed keypad locks on all exterior doors to prevent patient elopement."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for elopement

• Nearby Words

elongated
elongation
elope
elopement
eloper
eloquence
eloquent

Word Origin & Etymology

Entered English in the late 14th century from Anglo-French 'alopement' (an act of running away), likely derived from a Middle English or Germanic root akin to Old English 'hleapan' (to leap or run).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Elopement. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/elopement
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