escape mechanism

noun

: a mode of behavior or thinking adopted to evade unpleasant facts or responsibilities

Examples of escape mechanism in a Sentence

She uses humor as an escape mechanism. Football gives him an escape mechanism for his anger.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Eating quickly, then retreating to safety for digestion is a predator escape mechanism. Cleo Krejci, Journal Sentinel, 10 Oct. 2024 Sill also grew up in an abusive home, and turned to a life of crime and drug usage as an escape mechanism. Lynsey Eidell, Peoplemag, 13 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of escape mechanism was in 1927

Dictionary Entries Near escape mechanism

Cite this Entry

“Escape mechanism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/escape%20mechanism. Accessed 17 Feb. 2025.

Medical Definition

escape mechanism

noun
: a mode of behavior or thinking adopted to evade unpleasant facts or responsibilities : defense mechanism sense 1
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