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Deserting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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deserting

[dɪˈzɜːtɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

leaving without permission

Deserting is the act of leaving a place, especially the army, without permission. It is considered a serious offense and can result in severe consequences.

Synonyms

abandoning, absconding, forsaking.

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Word Description / Examples
deserting

Leaving someone or something behind in a way that implies betrayal, often used in a military context or to describe someone leaving a job or position.

  • The soldier was court-martialed for deserting his post during the mission.
  • She felt betrayed when her friend deserted her in times of need.
abandoning

Leaving a person, place, or thing permanently or for a long time, especially when it's your responsibility. Often implies neglect or irresponsibility.

  • The kitten was found after being abandoned in the alley.
  • He decided to abandon his career in finance to pursue his passion for art.
forsaking

Giving up or renouncing something valued or someone, often used with a sense of abandonment or betrayal. Generally has a literary or formal tone.

  • He felt that forsaking his dreams was the only option left.
  • In her vows, she promised never to forsake him.
absconding

Leaving hurriedly and secretly to avoid detection or arrest, commonly used in legal or criminal situations.

  • The suspect absconded with the stolen money before the police arrived.
  • She absconded from the halfway house and was later found in another state.

Examples of usage

  • He was sentenced to prison for deserting his post.
  • The soldier faced court-martial for deserting during a time of war.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • During World War I and II, desertion was considered a serious crime and often punishable by court martial.
  • Historical records indicate that many soldiers deserted due to harsh conditions, fear, or loss of morale.
  • Deserting has been a significant aspect of conflicts throughout history, affecting troop levels and battle outcomes.

Psychology

  • Deserting can invoke feelings of betrayal or abandonment in those left behind, impacting mental wellness.
  • Psychological studies indicate that individuals might desert situations due to perceived threats or lack of support.
  • Cognitive dissonance theory explains how people rationalize their decisions to leave potentially uncomfortable situations.

Pop Culture

  • Desertion themes are commonly depicted in movies, illustrating a character's conflict and dramatic choices.
  • Books often explore the consequences of deserting relationships, highlighting emotional and social ramifications.
  • Music, too, has addressed desertion, often evoking feelings of loss and longing in both lyrics and melody.

Literature

  • Classic literature frequently features deserted characters as a way to explore themes of isolation and independence.
  • Authors like Ernest Hemingway used desertion within their narratives to highlight the struggles of war and human connection.
  • The motif of deserting appears in various genres, from tragic romances to thrillers, highlighting the human condition.

Origin of 'deserting'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'desert' comes from the Latin 'desertus,' which means 'from which one has departed.'
  • In Old French, it evolved into 'deserter,' used in military contexts as early as the 16th century.
  • The meaning of 'deserter' shifted from general abandonment to specifically referring to leaving military duty without permission.

The word 'deserting' originated from the Latin word 'desertus', which means 'left waste or deserted'. It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe the act of abandoning or leaving without permission. Over the centuries, deserting has been associated with betrayal and cowardice, leading to strict penalties in military contexts.

See also: deserted, desertedly, deserter, desertion.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,244, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.