# duck out

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/duck-out
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To depart quickly or exit abruptly, especially in a manner which does not attract notice and before a meeting, event, etc. has concluded.

## Examples

- I need to duck out of this meeting early.
- The party was too loud, so I decided to duck out before anyone noticed I was gone.
- Sensing that the conversation was turning toward an uncomfortable topic, he quietly ducked out of the room while the others were distracted.

## Origin

Possibly an allusion to the abrupt manner in which a swimming duck can dive and disappear beneath the surface of the water. (disputed)

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.