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UKdisappearing / vanishing act
/dˌɪsɐpˈiəɹɪŋ vˈanɪʃɪŋ ˈakt/
/dˌɪsɐpˈɪɹɪŋ vˈænɪʃɪŋ ˈækt/disappearing / vanishing act
[PHRASE]1
an instance of someone becoming impossible to find, particularly when they are needed, wanted, or in a difficult or unpleasant situation
What is the origin of the idiom "disappearing act" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "disappearing act" is often attributed to the world of magic and stage performances. Magicians frequently perform tricks where objects or even themselves seem to vanish or disappear, creating an illusion of magic. This idiom can be used in a variety of contexts, ranging from social scenarios where someone abruptly leaves a gathering or event without explanation, to situations where individuals evade capture or escape without a trace.