Meaning & Definition of word "Allude"

Allude

/əˈluːd/

verb:

  • 1. to refer to something indirectly; to make an implied or inferred reference.
    • Example: In his speech, the senator alluded to the recent scandal without mentioning it by name.
  • 2. to hint at or suggest something without explicitly stating it.
    • Example: The author alludes to classic literature throughout the novel.
  • 3. to mention something briefly and without going into detail.
    • Example: She alluded to her past experiences, but did not expand on them.
  • 4. to suggest or call attention to indirectly.
    • Example: They alluded to the challenges ahead in their report.

Etymology

From Latin 'alludere', meaning 'to play with, allude to.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

allude to:

To refer to something or someone indirectly.

allude back:

To reference something mentioned previously.

Related Words

reference:

The act of mentioning or alluding to something.

hint:

A suggestion or indication that is not explicit.

Slang Meanings of allude

Meaning: To drop a hint without being direct.

Example Sentence: He was alluding, but nobody really understood the reference.

Meaning: To playfully suggest something.

Example Sentence: She alluded to their secret plan during the conversation.