Exodus

Noun

Definition: A mass departure or emigration, especially of a large group of people.

Synonyms: Departure, Exit, Migration, Flight, Evacuation, Egress

Antonyms: Arrival, Entry, Immigration

Examples:

The exodus of refugees from the war-torn country shook the world.
Many people left the city in a mass exodus after the devastating earthquake.

Mnemonics:

Think of the "ex" in exodus as the prefix indicating "out" or "away."

Etymology:

Origin:

Greek, from exodos, from ex- 'out' + hodos 'way, road.'

Historical Usage:

The word "exodus" originates from Greek but has been adopted into English to describe large-scale departures, often referencing the biblical book of Exodus, which recounts the Israelites' departure from Egypt.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Lead the exodus"

Explanation:

Referring to being at the forefront of a large-scale departure or migration.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Considering "exodus" solely as a religious term related to the biblical event.

Explanation:

While "exodus" has biblical origins, it is commonly used to describe any mass departure or migration, regardless of religious connotations.