What is the etymology of word allude?

The word "allude" has its roots in Latin, specifically from the verb "ludere", which means "to play".

Here's how the word evolved:

* "ludere" (Latin): To play

* "alludere" (Latin): To play with, to jest, to refer to indirectly

* "alluder" (Old French): To allude, to refer to

* "allude" (English): To refer to indirectly or casually

The concept of "playing" with language, hinting at something without explicitly stating it, is the core meaning that has been preserved through the centuries.