defection

noun

de·fec·tion di-ˈfek-shən

Synonyms of defection next

: conscious abandonment of allegiance or duty (as to a person, cause, or doctrine) : desertion

Examples of defection in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Pyongyang may also stare down issues with desertion and defection, Yeo noted. —

Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 1 Nov. 2024 The incident follows the defection of the RSF commander in Al-Jazirah, the region where the massacre allegedly took place. —

Barbara Arvanitidis, CNN, 26 Oct. 2024 Mormons, a typically strong Republican voting bloc, have seen some defections to the Democrats in recent years, partly due to Democratic overtures. —

Brady Knox, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 26 Sep. 2024 Live Colorado election results for the 2024 election Boebert’s defection from the 3rd Congressional District created a stir in a part of the state where the Republican candidate is usually a shoo-in. —

Judith Kohler, The Denver Post, 5 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for defection

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin dēfectiōn-, dēfectiō "falling short, failure, abandonment of allegiance," from dēficere "to be lacking, fail, become disaffected, go over (to the side of an opponent)" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at deficient

First Known Use

1532, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of defection was in 1532

See more words from the same year