Standard Lemma guide

hightail

verb · 2 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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  • /ˈhaɪ.teɪl/
  • US: Recorded audio is listed in the source snapshot.
  • Australia: Recorded audio is listed in the source snapshot.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To move at full speed, especially in retreat.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: Canada, US, informal, transitive, usually

Examples

  • He hightailed it toward town.
  • I want you to hightail your butt out of there before they come back.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: skedaddle, hightail, move quickly

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

leave as fast as possible

Definition source: Princeton WordNet 3.0

Examples

  • We hightailed it when we saw the police walking in

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

Broader terms: leave, go forth, go away

History

Etymology

From high + tail; refers to the behavior of fleeing animals, such as deer, that raise their tail when running away.

Across languages

Translations

3 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • German: abrauschen — to move at full speed, especially in retreat
  • German: flüchten — to move at full speed, especially in retreat
  • Russian: свалить (svalitʹ) — to move at full speed, especially in retreat