Defector - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A defector is a person who abandons their country, political party, or organization to join an opposing side, often due to disagreement or disillusionment. The term implies betrayal or disloyalty.
Definition:
A person who abandons their country, party, or cause to join an opposing one.
Synonyms:
traitor, deserter, turncoat, renegade
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
loyalist, supporter
Common Collocations:
political defector, high-profile defector, Soviet defector, military defector
Derivatives:
defect (verb), defection (noun)
Usage Tips:
Use "defector" for someone who switches sides, especially in politics or military contexts.
Common Phrases:
turncoat defector, high-profile defector, Cold War defector
Etymology:
From Latin "defectus," meaning "failure" or "desertion," via French "défecteur."
Examples:
- 1. The spy became a defector and fled to another country.
- 2. The government offered asylum to the high-profile defector.
- 3. Many defectors shared valuable intelligence with enemy nations.
- 4. The military punished the defector for abandoning his unit.