To break free from confinement or control. The prisoners managed to escape from the high-security prison.
To avoid something undesirable or unpleasant. She tried to escape the awkward conversation by pretending to receive a phone call.
To elude or get away from a pursuer or danger. The deer escaped the hunter by darting into the dense forest.
To issue or leak out, as a gas or liquid. Gas was escaping from the broken pipe, creating a hazardous situation.
To fail to be remembered, noticed, or achieved by someone. Her name escapes me at the moment.