noun

flight

The act of running away from danger.

The villagers begin their flight from the approaching army.

Etymology

The Old English noun names fleeing. This escape sense preserves that meaning, although modern English also uses flight for movement through the air.

More examples

  • His sudden flight raised suspicions.
  • The memoir describes the family's flight to safety.
  • They found shelter after days of flight.

Forms

flight

Similar words

escape
Emphasizes getting free of danger rather than the movement away.
retreat
Can be an organized withdrawal rather than panicked escape.