defection

noun

de·​fec·​tion di-ˈfek-shən 

: 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

The standout performer is Yoane Wissa, who was signed after Isak’s defection last summer and then barely resembled a footballer. — George Caulkin, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026

That defection prompted the exhibitors trade group Cinema United — once a staunch Bonta ally — to go wobbly and push for a settlement. — Gene Maddaus, Variety, 25 Aug. 2026

In a country where current and former governors command massive grassroots support and are often accused of working with local electoral officials to manipulate election results, analysts say the defections could work in Tinubu’s favor. — ABC News, 19 Aug. 2026

But Democrats have a far better chance of narrowing an already thinning GOP majority, leaving Republicans with less wiggle room for defections or even routine absences. — Greg Bluestein, AJC.com, 11 Aug. 2026

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

Rhymes for defection

• abjection
• advection
• affection
• bijection
• bisection
• collection
• complexion
• confection
• connection
• connexion
• convection
• correction