noun
desertion
dih-ZUR-shun/dɪˈzɜːrʃn/
The act of abandoning someone or something.
The sentry's desertion leaves his partner guarding the exposed checkpoint alone.
Etymology
The underlying image is undoing a joining: breaking a connection rather than maintaining it. This became abandonment, including leaving a duty, post, or person.
In context
Men suspected of desertion, cowardice, or abandoning their posts could face severe discipline.
More examples
- The army reports several desertions during the retreat.
- She sees his departure as an act of desertion.
- The party struggles after the desertion of several longtime members.
Forms
desertion · desertions
desert verb — To abandon a person, group, or duty.
deserter noun — Someone who abandons a duty or group.
Similar words
- abandonment
- Broader term, without necessarily suggesting violated loyalty or duty.
- defection
- Specifically involves leaving an allegiance, often to join a rival.