rout (rout)

[Formerly also rout; though differently applied.] A defeat followed by confused or tumultuous retreat; disorderly flight caused by defeat, as of an army or any body of contestants; hence, any thorough repulse, overthrow, or discomfiture: as, to put an army to rout. Shame and confusion! all is on the rout . Shak., 2 Hen. VI., v. 2. 21. I hope this bout to give thee the rout , And then have at thy purse. Robin Hood and the Beggar (Child's Ballads, V. 253). Such a numerous host Fled not in silence through the frighted deep, With ruin upon ruin, rout on rout , Confusion worse confounded. Milton , P. L., ii. 995.