1. Fugitive (noun): A person who has escaped from a place or is in hiding, especially to avoid arrest or persecution.
2. Fugitive (adjective): Running away or fleeing, often from law enforcement or danger.
3. Fugitive (adjective): Lasting only a short time; temporary or fleeting.
The term "fugitive" is most commonly associated with individuals who evade capture, whether for legal, political, or personal reasons. However, it also carries a broader meaning, referring to anything that is temporary or elusive. Understanding the various applications of "fugitive" helps in grasping its legal, historical, and metaphorical significance.
The word "fugitive" is often linked to legal matters, but it can also describe fleeting moments or impermanent conditions. Below are its different meanings in various contexts.
As a noun, "fugitive" refers to someone who is fleeing from danger, law enforcement, or oppression. This usage is common in legal discussions, history, and storytelling.
As an adjective, "fugitive" describes a person or entity that is escaping or fleeing, often due to legal reasons or threats.
In a more abstract sense, "fugitive" can describe something that is short-lived, such as a feeling, idea, or momentary experience.
The word "fugitive" functions as both a noun and an adjective. As a noun, it refers to a person evading capture. As an adjective, it describes something fleeting or in a state of escape.
Say fugitive as “FYOO-jih-tiv,” with the first syllable like “few” and the middle “jih” soft as in “jig.” The final “tiv” rhymes with “give.” Try stressing the first beat and letting the rest glide quickly, almost like someone running past.
Phonetic Pronunciation: /ˈfjuː.dʒɪ.tɪv/
Synonyms of "fugitive" help convey similar meanings in different contexts.
Understanding antonyms of "fugitive" helps clarify its meaning by showing opposite concepts.
Here are some sentences showcasing different uses of "fugitive."
The word "fugitive" is commonly used in legal and historical contexts, often referring to individuals escaping capture or seeking asylum. In literature, it is frequently employed to describe fleeting emotions, thoughts, or conditions. The term remains relevant in discussions about law enforcement, human rights, and historical events.
While "fugitive" is the primary form, certain variations and related words are used in different contexts.
Exploring related terms helps in understanding the broader concept of "fugitive."
The word "fugitive" originates from the Latin term fugitivus, meaning "one who flees." It derives from fugere, which means "to flee" or "run away." Over time, the term was adopted into Old French as fugitif before entering English. Initially used to describe runaway slaves or prisoners, the meaning later expanded to include anyone seeking escape, as well as describing things that are temporary or fleeting.
Several words derive from "fugitive," maintaining its core meaning of fleeing or being temporary.
People often misspell "fugitive" in the following ways:
Here are 10 idioms related to the concept of escape and impermanence.
Understanding "fugitive" better involves exploring frequently asked questions about its meaning, usage, and significance.
1. What is the basic definition of "fugitive"?
"Fugitive" refers to a person who is running away, often to escape law enforcement or persecution.
2. How is "fugitive" used in a sentence?
An example is: "The police arrested the 'fugitive' after months of searching."
3. What is the difference between a "fugitive" and an "outlaw"?
A "fugitive" is someone actively escaping capture, while an "outlaw" is someone who has been declared outside the protection of the law.
4. Can "fugitive" describe things other than people?
Yes, "fugitive" can also describe fleeting emotions, ideas, or things that disappear quickly.
5. Is "fugitive" always a legal term?
No, while it is commonly used in legal contexts, "fugitive" can also describe anything temporary or elusive.
6. What are some famous "fugitives" in history?
Examples include Jesse James, Bonnie and Clyde, and individuals escaping persecution like Harriet Tubman.
7. What does "fugitive thought" mean?
A "fugitive thought" is an idea or memory that briefly appears and quickly disappears.
8. How does law enforcement track a "fugitive"?
They use databases, surveillance, public alerts, and cooperation with international agencies to locate and capture fugitives.
9. What is the "fugitive slave" historical term?
It refers to enslaved individuals who escaped captivity, particularly in the U.S. before the Civil War.
10. What is the meaning of "fugitive justice"?
"Fugitive justice" refers to justice that is elusive or not fully realized, often due to systemic failures.
"Fugitive" refers to someone who is escaping pursuit, often from legal authorities, but it can also describe anything that is fleeting or temporary. The word plays a significant role in law, literature, and history, reflecting themes of escape and impermanence. Learning more about "fugitive" helps in understanding its legal, emotional, and metaphorical uses.
