scarper

American  

[skahr-per] / ˈskɑr pər /

verb (used without object)

British.

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

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scarper British  

/ ˈskɑːpə /

verb

1. to depart in haste

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noun

1. a hasty departure

Etymology

Origin of scarper

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

Example Sentences

She said they had heard loud music coming from inside and saw someone in the flat approach, but then "scarper" away.

From BBC • Jan. 30, 2024

The other, at home to Fulham, feels like a huge game if the Saints are to scarper clear of the relegation zone they find themselves back in.

From The Guardian • Feb. 11, 2019

And then you scarper home as fast as you can.

From Economist • Oct. 2, 2014

Anyway, he doesn't get one this time, the guanacos are spooked by something and scarper.

From The Guardian • Aug. 12, 2012

But if I tried to scarper and got caught, it'd mean we'd nicked the squash.

From "Black Swan Green" by David Mitchell