made off
/meɪd ɒf/
VERB
1. To leave or depart quickly
To leave a place suddenly or hurriedly, often to escape, avoid being caught, or get away from an unpleasant or dangerous situation.
1.1. Escaping or fleeing from a place
Used when someone quickly leaves a location to escape danger, avoid capture, or get away from someone pursuing them.
Synonyms
- absconded
- bolted
- fled
- escaped
- ran away
- ran off
- decamped
- cut and ran
- scarpered
- skedaddled
- scrammed
- bugged out
- made tracks
- beat it
- took off
- turned tail
Antonyms
Examples
- The suspect made off before the police arrived at the scene.
- Startled by the sudden noise, the raccoon made off into the darkness.
- The burglar made off through the back door when the alarm sounded.
Related Words
- departure
- escape
- flight
- retreat
- getaway
- flight from danger
- evacuation
- pursuit
- withdrawal
1.2. Leaving with stolen or taken property
Used when someone takes something away, especially without permission, while leaving a place or escaping with the item.
Synonyms
- absconded with
- stole
- ran off with
- made away with
- walked off with
- snatched
- swiped
- carried off
Antonyms
- returned
- restored
- gave back
- handed over
Examples
- The thief made off with the priceless artwork before anyone noticed.
- The puppy grabbed a shoe and made off with it, wagging its tail.
- The robbers made off with the cash before security could intervene.
Related Words
- theft
- robbery
- burglary
- larceny
- stolen property
- getaway
- pilfering
- absconding