Definition of skip out

The origin of the phrase "skip out" can be traced back to the mid-19th century when it was commonly used in the United States. The term derived from the headwaiter's practice in restaurants and taverns during that time. At the end of the meal, the headwaiter would tally the bill, and the guests were requested to "check out" or settle their bills before leaving. However, some guests would try to avoidpayment by leaving the restaurant or tavern without settling their debts. This act of "skipping out" on the bill became a popular way to avoid payment, and the phrase became popularized in the American lexicon. The phrase "skip out" also has a similar connotation when used in describing a person who abandons their responsibilities or commitments without prior notice. In this context, the term has taken on a broader meaning that goes beyond just avoiding a restaurant bill. Overall, the origins of the phrase "skip out" highlight the evolution of restaurant and food establishment practices, and its enduring relevance in describing the act of leaving without paying or fulfilling a duty.