1. people who have run away or deserted; fugitives or deserters
Usage: archaic

Examples

• The king’s soldiers pursued the runagates across the countryside.
• Medieval chronicles often described runagates fleeing from their feudal obligations.
• The captain branded his former crew members as runagates and traitors.
• In old tales, runagates sought refuge in distant lands.
• The lord offered rewards for information about the runagates’ whereabouts.