defection

noun

de·​fec·​tion di-ˈfek-shən How to pronounce defection (audio)
Synonyms of defectionnext
: conscious abandonment of allegiance or duty (as to a person, cause, or doctrine) : desertion

Examples of defection in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Guimaraes’ defection left Newcastle low on experience and creativity. — George Caulkin, New York Times, 2 Sep. 2026 Adding insult to injury, the defections came even as GOP hard-liners were ready to paralyze the House over an unrelated dispute with Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) on funding the government. — Hailey Bullis, The Washington Examiner, 2 Sep. 2026 With Democratic support, Johnson passed the funding measure even with some GOP defections. — Justin Papp, CNBC, 1 Sep. 2026 Indeed, Glaser’s defection to WME shocked many inside UTA’s Beverly Hills headquarters, three insiders say. — Matt Donnelly, Variety, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for defection

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin dēfectiōn-, dēfectiō "falling short, failure, abandonment of allegiance," from dēficere "to be lacking, fail, become disaffected, go over (to the side of an opponent)" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at deficient

First Known Use

1532, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of defection was in 1532

Rhymes for defection

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Browse Nearby Words

defectible
defection
defective
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Cite this Entry

“Defection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/defection. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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