beat the rap

phrase

: to escape or evade the penalties connected with an accusation or charge

Word History

First Known Use

1911, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of beat the rap was in 1911

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beat the pants off

beat the rap

Beattie

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“Beat the rap.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beat%20the%20rap. Accessed 11 Mar. 2026.

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Last Updated: 24 Feb 2026 - Definition revised

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beat the rap

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