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.
ByteDance is offering special stock options to its AI team to prevent defections, and one Chinese robotics startup advertised an $18 million salary for a chief scientist. semafor.com, 29 May 2026 The last thing Newcastle wanted was a repeat of Alexander Isak’s slow and fractious defection to Liverpool last year. Phil Hay, New York Times, 28 May 2026 Races for the office tend to be sleepy affairs, but this year’s contest has featured last-minute entrants, a whopping influx of cash and defections among the incumbent’s key supporters. Sonja Sharp, Los Angeles Times, 23 May 2026 Tuesday’s primary results add emphasis to a GOP defection. Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 20 May 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

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Cite this Entry

“Defection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/defection. Accessed 3 Jun. 2026.

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