Deserter: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in a military or formal organizational context to describe someone who leaves their post without permission.

• The soldier was labeled a deserter after he abandoned his unit during the battle.
• Deserters are often punished severely by military courts.

Used when someone leaves their country, political party, or cause to join an opposing one, often with the implication of betraying their original group.

• The defector provided valuable information to the intelligence agency of the rival nation.
• During the Cold War, several high-profile defectors crossed the border seeking asylum.

Carries a strong negative connotation; used to describe someone who betrays their country, cause, or a person who trusted them.

• He was branded a traitor after leaking classified information to the enemy.
• History often remembers traitors with infamy and contempt.

Used to describe someone who secretly leaves to avoid arrest or legal consequences, usually in a civilian context.

• He became an absconder after embezzling a large sum of money from the company.
• The police are searching for the absconder who skipped town before the trial.

This word is primarily used to describe someone who abandons their duty or post, often in a military context. It has a strong negative connotation and implies a breach of loyalty and responsibility.

• The soldier was labeled a deserter after he abandoned his unit during the battle.
• Deserters are often punished severely in times of war.

This word is less common and can refer to someone who gives up or abandons something, typically a person, cause, or belief. It has a broader application but is less negative compared to 'deserter'.

• He is often seen as the forsaker of the old traditions in favor of modern ways.
• She could not forgive him for being a forsaker of their friendship.

A renegade is someone who betrays a set of principles, party, or cause and joins the opposing side. It generally has a strong negative connotation, suggesting betrayal and rebelliousness.

• The renegade knight switched allegiance and fought against his former comrades.
• He was considered a renegade for abandoning the party's core values.

This word refers to someone who switches their allegiance or loyalty, especially in a way that is seen as traitorous. It is often used informally and carries a strong negative connotation.

• He was branded a turncoat after he joined the rival company.
• Nobody trusts a turncoat, as their loyalty is always in question.