roach out

English

Etymology

In reference to the behavior of cockroaches scattering when exposed.

Verb

roach out (third-person singular simple present roaches out, present participle roaching out, simple past and past participle roached out)

1. (video games, originally World of Warcraft) To run away from a battle when it becomes difficult.
   • 2025 January 13, Atharv Kapoor, “What does "roach out" mean in World of Warcraft? Controversy explored as Sodapoppin weighs in on Pirate Software's actions”, in Sportskeeda‎:

     PirateSoftware's behavior is being labeled as "roaching out" online, that is, partaking in a conservative and passive playstyle that focuses on self-survival rather than taking an assertive and engaged role.

   • 2025 February 7, Bravado, Blizzard Forums‎:

     Raid lead says to stay in and finish the boss, Yamdef roaches out instead.

   • 2025 February 7, Bravado, Blizzard Forums‎:

     If Yamato didnt roach out, boss easily dies before the last aoe kills T1.

   • 2025 February 7, Battlecruisr, Blizzard Forums‎:

     like 33 of the 40 people roached out

2. (by extension) To quickly leave a situation when it becomes uncomfortable.