scarper

[ skahr-per ]

verb (used without object)

, British.

1. to flee or depart suddenly, especially without having paid one's bills.

scarper

/ ˈskɑːpə /

verb

1. to depart in haste

noun

1. a hasty departure

Word History and Origins

Origin of scarper¹

First recorded in 1845–50; originally argot, probably from Polari, ultimately from Italian scappare “to flee,” from Vulgar Latin excappāre (unattested); escape

Word History and Origins

Origin of scarper¹

C19: probably an adaptation of Italian scappare to escape; perhaps influenced by folk etymology Scapa Flow Cockney rhyming slang for go