| to introduce subtleties into or argue subtly about. |
| to run away hurriedly; flee. |
auction (ˈɔːkʃən) ![]() | |
| —n | |
| 1. | Compare Dutch auction a public sale of goods or property, esp one in which prospective purchasers bid against each other until the highest price is reached |
| 2. | the competitive calls made in bridge and other games before play begins, undertaking to win a given number of tricks if a certain suit is trumps |
| 3. | See auction bridge |
| —vb (often foll by off) | |
| 4. | to sell by auction |
| [C16: from Latin auctiō an increasing, from augēre to increase] | |