What does skedaddled mean?
Skedaddled is a verb that means to leave quickly, often in a hurry, or to depart suddenly. It is often used in informal contexts to describe a sudden departure, and can be used in both British and American English. The word is thought to have originated in the mid-19th century, possibly from the idea of a horse skedaddling, or running away quickly. Skedaddled can be used in a variety of contexts, from describing a crowd of people leaving a theater to a group of tourists fleeing a city after riots break out. The word has a somewhat informal tone, and is often used in casual conversation or writing. Despite its informal tone, skedaddled is a useful word to know, as it can add flavor and interest to one's language.
verbTo leave quickly, often in a hurry, or to depart suddenly.
- To leave quickly, often in a hurry, or to depart suddenly.
"The crowd skedaddled out of the theater as soon as the fire alarm sounded."
"The crowd skedaddled out of the theater as soon as the fire alarm sounded."
"The tourists skedaddled out of the city after the riots broke out."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of skedaddled
The word skedaddled is thought to have originated in the mid-19th century, possibly from the idea of a horse skedaddling, or running away quickly. The exact origin of the word is unclear, but it is believed to have been in use by the 1850s. The word is likely related to the verb 'skedaddle', which means to move quickly or to run away.
How skedaddled is actually used
Skedaddled is often used in informal contexts to describe a sudden departure. It can be used in both British and American English.