depart
This term carries a formal tone and suggests a deliberate, scheduled, or official movement. While leave is a general term for exiting, depart emphasizes the commencement of a journey or the act of setting out toward a destination, often evoking the atmosphere of transit hubs like airports or stations. When used to describe a change in behavior or a shift in a plan, it implies a conscious break from a norm or a tradition. In the context of death, it serves as a gentle, respectful euphemism that focuses on the transition from one state of existence to another rather than the biological cessation of life.
Meanings
To leave a place, especially at the start of a journey.
"The train is scheduled to depart from platform four at noon."
To deviate from an established plan, standard, or traditional way of doing something.
"The speaker decided to depart from his prepared notes to address the crowd's concerns."
To die, often used as a euphemism for passing away.
"The family gathered to mourn their beloved father who departed peacefully in his sleep."
Examples
The flight will depart from the gate in ten minutes.
The director chose to depart from the original script during the scene.
The elderly statesman departed this life surrounded by his grandchildren.