exodus
EK-suh-duss
/ˈek.sə.dəs/
A mass departure or exit of people, especially from a region or country.
Emphasizes a large-scale, simultaneous exit rather than gradual individual moves.
The story behind the word. Directly from Ancient Greek 'exodos' (way out, departure), built from 'ex' (out) and 'hodos' (way). Standardized by the biblical story of the Israelites departing Egypt.
Word relationships
- emigration: Emigration refers to leaving one's country permanently, while exodus highlights a dramatic, large-group movement.
- influx: Influx is a massive arrival, whereas exodus is a massive departure.
Commonly confused with
- flight: Flight implies running from immediate danger, whereas exodus focuses on the mass movement of populations.
Collocations
- mass exodus
- rural exodus
- sudden exodus
Example sentences
- "A prolonged drought triggered a mass exodus of young workers from farming villages to manufacturing hubs." Economic analysis of drought-stricken regions
Memory hook
EX-it down the road (HODOS): EXODUS is a massive exit. Mass exit.
When not to use
Do not use for one person leaving a room or small group departures.
Fun facts
- The word originally meant the climax or final departure scene at the end of a Greek tragic play.
Related words
Also appears in
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