'elope' originates from Middle Dutch, specifically the word 'ontlopen,' where 'ont-' meant 'away' and 'lopen' meant 'to run.'

'ontlopen' transformed into the French word 'esloper,' and eventually became the modern English word 'elope' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to escape or run away,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to run away secretly to get married.'