Tenn. Code Ann. § 21-1-806

If the defendant in execution keeps out of the way or absconds, so that a copy of the decree cannot be served upon the defendant, or if the defendant evades receiving the decree, an affidavit of that fact, and that a copy of the decree was tendered the defendant, or left at the defendant's last place of abode, shall authorize the issuance of the attachment without actual service of the copy.