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bug-out

bug-out

1 8.3
A quick plan to leave a place because of danger
  • noun
  • /ˈbʌɡ aʊt/
  • US
translation icon : evacuación
  • During the wildfire, the family made a quick bug-out to reach safety.

Examples

  • They planned a quick bug-out if the storm worsened.

  • When the alarm sounded, the team executed a swift bug-out to avoid the approaching storm.

  • They always keep a bug-out bag ready in case of sudden emergencies.

  • In case of fire, our bug-out route is clearly marked.

  • Many hikers carry a bug-out bag filled with essential supplies for emergencies.

  • In case of a natural disaster, it's crucial to have a bug-out plan ready for a quick escape.

  • The family prepared a bug-out kit to ensure they could leave their home at a moment's notice.

Synonyms

evacuation
vsbug-out
130 4.1

Moving people from a dangerous place to a safer place, for example during a fire

is a rapid emergency departure rather than an organized move
skedaddle
vsbug-out
  • Informal
7 9.3

A quick leaving to avoid danger or trouble

is a rapid emergency departure rather than a disorderly escape

How Urgent

exodus
45 7.2
bug-out
  • US
1 8.3
evacuation
130 4.1
departure
201 2.3

Surface Forms

bug-out singular
bug-outs plural

Morphology

bug-out = bug + out (semi-transparent) = bug + out

A nominalization of the phrasal verb 'bug out'; 'out' suggests leaving but the idiomatic evacuation sense is lexicalized.

Etymology

Bug-out began as US military slang for a fast 'retreat', like a bug running away, so a bug-out is a sudden, quick leaving to reach safety.