Direction, perhaps north, to retreat and run away (5)

I believe the answer is:

elope

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'run away' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for elope that I've seen before include "Run away to get married" , "Flee to wed" , "Bolt" , "Do a runner" , "go off to the match?" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app