defection
Translation
desertion, abandonment, apostasy
Examples
The soldier's defection was a major news story.
The soldier's defection was a major news story.
There were several defections from the political party.
There were several defections from the political party.
Grammar Patterns
((defection from sth.)) the act of leaving a country or group The defection from the party was unexpected.
((defection to sth.)) the act of joining an opposing side His defection to the enemy was shocking.
Similar Words
Etymology
From Latin 'defectionem' (a deserting, revolt), from the verb 'deficere' (to fail, desert). It is the noun form of the verb 'to defect'.
Memory Tips
Think of leaving a 'section' of your group or country. 'De-section' sounds like 'defection'.