The word "steal away" is spelled with a combination of two vowel sounds. The first vowel sound is represented by the letter 'e' and pronounced as /i/. The second vowel sound is represented by the letter 'a' and pronounced as /eɪ/. The word 'steal' is pronounced as /stiːl/ with a long 'i' sound, and the word 'away' is pronounced as /əˈweɪ/ with the diphthong 'ay'. The combination of these two sounds gives the word 'steal away' its unique and memorable pronunciation.
The phrase "steal away" is a verbal expression derived from the combination of the two words "steal" and "away". It can be used as a verb phrase or conjunction depending on the context. The meaning of "steal away" can be defined as the act of leaving or sneaking away quietly and discreetly, often with the intention of not being noticed or drawing attention. It implies a covert departure or escape, suggesting a sense of secrecy or furtiveness.
The term is commonly used to describe leaving a place without informing others or without their knowledge. It could also be used metaphorically to imply a subtle retreat from a situation or a relationship. Additionally, "steal away" can be associated with trying to find solitude or seeking privacy in order to reflect, recharge, or have some individual time.
This expression traces its origins back to the concept of thievery where an individual unlawfully takes something without permission or ownership, but its figurative application is related to the act of moving away surreptitiously. "Steal away" is often associated with emotions or actions that involve an element of secrecy, evasion, or escape, hence suggesting a desire for discretion in one's departure. Overall, "steal away" conveys the idea of slipping away quietly, both literally and metaphorically, while minimizing disruption or attracting attention.
The etymology of the phrase "steal away" can be traced back to Old English and Middle English.
The word "steal" itself comes from the Old English word "stelan", which meant "to commit a theft or carry off clandestinely". This word has roots in various Germanic languages, such as Old High German "stelan" and Old Norse "stela".
The word "away" has similar origins, stemming from the Old English word "aweg", meaning "in or to a different place or direction". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "weg", which meant "way" or "road".
The combination of "steal" and "away" came to form the phrase "steal away", which originally referred to secretly or quietly leaving or escaping. Over time, it also gained a figurative meaning of departing or slipping away unnoticed.