verb
bail
To leave or back out suddenly.
He decides to bail on the camping trip when the forecast worsens.
Etymology
Bail is shortened from bail out, a phrase used for escaping or withdrawing. In this informal use, the departure can be from a plan, obligation, or social situation.
More examples
- Please do not bail at the last minute.
- She bailed before the meeting had finished.
- Two volunteers are bailing on the project.
Forms
bail · bails · bailed · bailing
Similar words
- quit
- Can mean stopping permanently rather than making a sudden departure.
- back out
- Specifically means withdrawing from a prior agreement or plan.