fugitive

(fyo͞oˈjĭ-tĭv)

1. Running away or fleeing, as from the law.
2. a. Lasting only a short time; fleeting: “[His] house and burial place … should be visited by all who profess even a fugitive interest in political economy” (John Kenneth Galbraith).
   b. Difficult to comprehend or retain; elusive: fugitive solutions to the problem.
   c. Given to change or disappearance; perishable: fugitive beauty.
   d. Of temporary interest: fugitive essays.
3. Tending to wander; vagabond.

1. One who flees; a refugee.
2. Something fleeting or ephemeral.

Related Forms:

• fuˈgi·tive·ly adverb

• fuˈgi·tive·ness noun