decamp

IPA

Dictionary definition of decamp

To leave a place suddenly and secretly, often with the intention to escape or avoid detection.
"The soldiers decided to decamp from their current location and relocate to a safer area."

Detailed meaning of decamp

When someone or a group of people decamps, they hastily and covertly depart from their current location, typically abandoning it without prior notice or warning. This action can be prompted by various reasons, such as evading authorities, escaping a dangerous situation, or simply aiming to leave without being noticed or hindered. 'Decamp' implies a sense of urgency and a desire to disengage swiftly and inconspicuously. It can be used in a literal sense when describing physical movement or departure, or in a figurative sense to express the sudden abandonment or cessation of an activity, project, or endeavor. Overall, 'decamp' conveys the idea of a sudden and secretive departure, often carried out with the intention of avoiding attention or potential consequences.

Example sentences containing decamp

1. The circus performers quickly decamped from the town after their final show.
2. The hikers planned to decamp early in the morning to avoid the scorching heat.
3. The protesters were ordered to decamp from the public park by the authorities.
4. We need to decamp from this crowded hotel and find a more peaceful place to stay.
5. The nomadic tribe would frequently decamp and move to different grazing lands.
6. The students were excited to decamp to the beach for their school trip.

History and etymology of decamp

The verb 'decamp' has its etymological origins in the French word 'décamper,' which is a combination of 'dé-' (meaning 'from' or 'away from') and 'camper' (meaning 'to camp'). In its literal sense, 'décamper' originally referred to breaking camp or moving away from a campsite. Over time, this French term evolved to take on a more figurative meaning, describing the act of leaving a place suddenly and often secretly, with the intention of escaping or avoiding detection. When adopted into English, it retained this figurative sense, emphasizing the idea of a hasty and covert departure. The etymology of 'decamp' underscores its historical connection to the act of leaving a location abruptly, suggesting a swift and often strategic exit from a situation or place.

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Further usage examples of decamp

1. The refugees were forced to decamp from their makeshift shelters due to an approaching storm.
2. After the party, the guests slowly began to decamp and head back home.
3. The army had to decamp overnight to surprise the enemy during their march.
4. The campers were instructed to decamp and pack up their tents before sunrise.
5. The film crew had to decamp from the city due to permit issues.
6. The burglars managed to decamp from the crime scene before the police arrived.
7. The nomads would decamp and follow the herds in search of fresh grazing areas.
8. The settlers decided to decamp from their current settlement and explore new territories.
9. The rock band planned to decamp from the tour bus and take a break before their next show.
10. The political campaign team had to decamp and relocate to a more strategic location.
11. The troops were ordered to decamp from their position and retreat to a more defensible spot.
12. The adventurers had to decamp from their base camp and continue their ascent up the mountain.
13. The scouts were taught how to quickly decamp and leave no trace behind in the wilderness.
14. The thieves decamped from the scene of the crime before the police arrived.