Definition

To leave a place suddenly or secretly, often to avoid detection or responsibility.

Example

The soldiers decided to decamp in the middle of the night to avoid being caught.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear that they decided to decamp early from the campsite?

Really? I thought they were supposed to stay until tomorrow.

Yeah, they said it was getting too cold at night.

That makes sense! I wouldn’t want to freeze out there either.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Decamp → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "campus" (from Latin, meaning field or open space). The word "decamp" means to leave a camp or to depart from a place, especially in a hurried or secretive manner.

Memory Tip

Think of 'leaving' ('de-') a 'field' ('campus') quickly — that's why decamp means to leave a place suddenly.

Visually Confused Words