Allude, v. i. [imp. & p. p. Alluded; p. pr. & vb. n. Alluding.]
Etymology: [L. alludere to play with, to allude; ad + ludere to play.]
To refer to something indirectly or by suggestion; to have reference to a subject not specifically and plainly mentioned; -- followed by to; as, the story alludes to a recent transaction. These speeches . . . do seem to allude unto such ministerial garments as were then in use. Hooker.
Syn. -- To refer; point; indicate; hint; suggest; intimate; signify; insinuate; advert. See Refer.
1 other Webster entry under this spelling
Allude, v. t.
To compare allusively; to refer (something) as applicable. [Obs.] Wither.
Shades of meaning
Advert, mention, and refer are used of language that more or less distinctly utters a certain thought; the others of language from which it may be inferred. We allude to a matter slightly, perhaps by a word or phrase, as it were in byplay; we advert to it when we turn from our path to treat it; we refer to it by any clear utterance that distinctly turns the mind or attention to it; as, marginal figures refer to a parallel passage; we mention a thing by explicit word, as by naming it. The speaker adverted to the recent disturbances and the remissness of certain public officers; tho he mentioned no name, it was easy to see to whom he alluded. One may hint at a thing in a friendly way, but what is insinuated is always unfavorable, generally both hostile and cowardly. One may indicate his wishes, intimate his plans, imply his opinion, signify his will, suggest a course of action. Compare suggestion.
Prepositions
The passage evidently alludes to the Jewish Passover.