What does skedaddled mean?
“Skedaddled” is the past tense and past participle of “skedaddle,” an informal verb meaning to leave or run away quickly. It is especially suited to describing a hurried departure that seems comic, undignified, or exaggerated, as when a group of children “skedaddled” after hearing that a monster was nearby. The word can also carry the slightly dismissive implication that someone is avoiding a difficult situation, confrontation, or responsibility. Although its sound and spelling are distinctive, the expression is well established in both British and American English. “Skedaddle” itself is also used as a command, meaning “go away quickly” or “run off.” The word’s origin is uncertain, but it is documented from nineteenth-century American English and later became familiar on both sides of the Atlantic.
verb (past tense and past participle)To leave or run away quickly, often in a hurried or comical manner. It can also mean to scatter or disperse hastily.
- To leave or run away quickly, especially in a hurried, playful, or undignified way.
"The children skedaddled down the lane as soon as the rain began."
"The kids skedaddled down the lane when the storm approached."
"Once the interview ended, the reporters skedaddled toward the exits."
Need to make a quick exit? Just skedaddle—and make it sound like part of the fun.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does skedaddled come from?
The word is generally traced to mid-nineteenth-century American English, although its precise origin remains uncertain. Its unusual spelling and sound became familiar in both British and American English during the later nineteenth century. No reliable group of cognates can be identified because the underlying etymology is unclear.
Related word forms
How skedaddled is actually used
This is an informal and usually humorous word. It can suggest haste, comic panic, or a desire to avoid a confrontation, but it does not necessarily imply genuine danger.
Easily confused with skedaddled
“Skedaddled” means to run away or leave hastily, whereas “scheduled” means to arrange something for a particular time.