Definitions

eluded

[ih-loo-did] / ɪˈlu dɪd /

VERB

avoid; escape

Synonyms

STRONGEST

baffle confound dodge evade flee foil frustrate outrun outwit puzzle shun stall stonewall thwart

STRONG

bilk circumvent ditch double duck eschew fly shirk shuck shy stump

WEAK

be beyond someone beat around the bush cop out get around get away from give the runaround give the slip give wide berth to hem and haw not touch pass the buck pass up run around stay shy of steer clear of

Antonyms

STRONGEST

abet aid assist clarify clear up encourage enlighten explain face help meet support

WEAK

attract confront encounter entice invite take on

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

What appears to have eluded voters is that the can has not budged in more than a decade.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 17, 2026

It spurred allegations that he had stolen money from clients for decades and eluded detection thanks to a cozy relationship with State Bar regulators and the judiciary.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 5, 2026

"An understanding eluded the parties this time. I am sure we are, quite understandably, feeling a strong sense of frustration," he said.

From Barron's • Mar. 2, 2026

"A world indoor medal has eluded Keely in the last five years, so it's something she's desperate to get in Poland in a few weeks' time."

From BBC • Feb. 19, 2026

Hill eluded defensive back Gary Edwards and went out of bounds after a nine-yard gain.

From "Friday Night Lights: A Town, A Team, And A Dream" by H.G. Bissinger