Pronunciation: [tˈʊk ðə lˈam] (IPA) 
The phrase "took the lam" is an idiomatic expression meaning to go into hiding or flee from the law. In terms of spelling, the word "lam" is pronounced with the short vowel sound /æ/ (as in "cat") and a voiced consonant /m/. The spelling "lam" is derived from the slang term "lamister," meaning "to run away." Its use dates back to the early 1900s and can be found in various forms of literature, film, and music.
Took the lam is an idiomatic expression that originated in the early 20th century and is mainly used in American English. It refers to someone fleeing or escaping from a particular place, typically to avoid arrest, punishment, or other unfavorable circumstances. In this context, "lam" is an abbreviation of "lamster," which is a slang term for a fugitive or someone on the run.
The phrase "took the lam" implies a sudden and discreet departure with the intention of evading capture or any form of accountability. It often suggests a sense of urgency and desperation. The individual "taking the lam" can be someone involved in criminal activities, an accused person trying to avoid trial or imprisonment, or simply someone who wants to avoid any form of confrontation or problem.
This phrase is derived from the action of lamming, which is an old slang term meaning to flee or to escape quickly. It also reflects the idiomatic usage of other expressions such as "on the lam" or "go on the lam," which convey the same meaning of escaping or running away.
In summary, "took the lam" is an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of fleeing or escaping from a particular situation, often with the purpose of avoiding arrest or any kind of trouble.
