noun

defection

desertion, abandonment, apostasy

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.

((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.

Synonyms: desertion, abandonment

From Latin 'defectionem' (a deserting, revolt), from the verb 'deficere' (to fail, desert). It is the noun form of the verb 'to defect'.

Think of leaving a 'section' of your group or country. 'De-section' sounds like 'defection'.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.