The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

exodus

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Dictionary definition of exodus

A mass departure or a widespread and often organized migration of a group of people from one place to another.
"The exodus of the workers from the city caused a labor shortage."

Detailed meaning of exodus

This term is frequently used to describe a significant movement of individuals, families, or communities away from their current location, often driven by various factors such as social, political, economic, or environmental reasons. 'Exodus' is historically associated with events like the biblical exodus of the Israelites from Egypt or more contemporary occurrences like the mass exodus of refugees from conflict zones or people leaving a particular region due to economic hardships. It carries the connotation of a collective journey away from a previous situation or location, symbolizing a significant and often transformative moment in the lives of those involved.

Example sentences containing exodus

1. The exodus from the city was sudden, leaving empty streets and silent neighborhoods.
2. The news of war triggered an exodus, filling the roads with fleeing families.
3. Their exodus from oppressive regimes sought hope in lands unknown.
4. Companies are concerned about the exodus of skilled employees to competitors.
5. The exodus of young talent from small towns is a growing problem.
6. Historians often debate the causes behind the ancient Israelite exodus.

History and etymology of exodus

The noun 'exodus' has its etymological origins in Greek. It is derived from the Greek word 'exodos,' which is a combination of 'ex' (out) and 'hodos' (way or road). In ancient Greece, 'exodos' originally referred to the act of going out or departing from a place, particularly in the context of a journey. Over time, this term came to represent a mass departure or a widespread and often organized migration of a group of people from one place to another. When it entered into English, 'exodus' retained its sense of a significant and often historic movement of people, typically marked by a sense of purpose or necessity. The etymology of 'exodus' effectively captures the idea of a collective departure, emphasizing the notion of people moving out along a specific path or way.

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Further usage examples of exodus

1. The festival ended with an exodus of fans, leaving behind a sea of litter.
2. Failing schools are leading to an exodus towards private education.
3. A sudden exodus of investors could spell disaster for the startup.
4. Many cite job opportunities as the main reason for the rural exodus.
5. The tech industry is facing an exodus of women, alarming company leaders.
6. Following the scandal, there was an exodus of customers from the brand.
7. Urban exodus is reshaping the demographics of smaller communities.
8. The government is trying to stem the exodus through economic incentives.
9. An exodus of doctors from public to private sectors worries health officials.
10. After graduation, an exodus of students moved to bigger cities for work.
11. Some view the suburban exodus as an opportunity for city revitalization.
12. In literature, the theme of exodus often symbolizes a search for freedom.
13. Reports indicate an exodus from online platforms due to privacy concerns.
14. An unexpected exodus of artists has left the local scene struggling.
15. The Great Migration was an exodus that shaped modern American history.
16. The exodus of retirees to warmer states is a predictable seasonal trend.
17. Natural disasters often necessitate a rapid exodus to safer regions.
18. During the 20th century, the exodus from farms to cities was transformative.