# go on the scout

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/go-on-the-scout
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To go into hiding.

## Examples

- The thief went on the scout after the police arrived.
- When the secret was revealed, the politician went on the scout to avoid the press.
- Fearing the consequences of his failed rebellion, the disgraced officer went on the scout, disappearing into the mountains until the search parties gave up.

## Origin

From scout, meaning an act of scouting or reconnoitering.

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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.