Phrase guide

exit stage left

noun · verb · 3 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

noun

Meaning 1

An orderly and uneventful departure, timed so as not to detract or distract.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To exit or disappear in a quiet, non-dramatic fashion, making way for more interesting events.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • 1998: C.M. from Manitowac, WI, Mike and Carrie https://web.archive.org/web/20041227101650/http://www.baileydoginc.com/mcangels/magconnect/march17.html DAYS teased us with Mike and Carrie all through Carrie and Austin's honeymoon, and continues to tease us today as the newlyweds settle into everyday life. Austin better exit stage left soon, and give Carrie and Mike a chance for love.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

3

verb

Meaning 3

Leave the scene, and don't make a fuss.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: imperative

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From the direction in theatrical scripts: "Exit stage left", marking the disappearance of a character from the stage in the normal manner.