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.
But the North previously reacted with fury to major defections of its citizens, accusing South Korea of kidnapping them. — ABC News, 8 Oct. 2026 But the defection of one conservative could lead to a tie vote. — Los Angeles Times, 5 Oct. 2026 Subsequent journalistic and political events—a New York Times editorial, the first Democratic congressional defection, Nancy Pelosi’s television appearance, and George Clooney’s op-ed—repeatedly repriced the contract. — Simon Denny, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2026 By contrast, if Weiss is not getting a promotion, Ellison would be wise to say something the minute the deal is officially closed, heading off speculation about CNN’s future and preventing possible talent defections at the network. — Josef Adalian, Vulture, 24 Sep. 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 14 Oct. 2026.

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