saboteur

noun

sab·​o·​teur ˌsa-bə-ˈtər 

-ˈtu̇r, 

-ˈtyu̇r

: one that practices sabotage

Examples of saboteur in a Sentence

The car's tires were slashed by saboteurs.

Recent Examples on the Web

Ukraine has denied involvement in damage to one of the pipelines, but investigators in Germany have said the saboteurs were Ukrainian. —Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 26 Feb. 2026

In researching a story that spans the globe, Fox uncovers her mother’s true experience from Nazi slave to freedom fighter, from refugee to spy and saboteur. —Ben Crandell, Sun Sentinel, 17 Feb. 2026

As online reviews turn vicious and everyone from staff to local collaborators falls under suspicion, Orsa must uncover the saboteur before the evening—and her pristine reputation—crumbles. —Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 31 Jan. 2026

Inviting in such resolute saboteurs, these institutions repel many in their core audience. —Sean Williams, Harpers Magazine, 27 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

French, from saboter

First Known Use

1921, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for saboteur

• amateur
• connoisseur
• kieselguhr
• monseigneur
• procureur
• retransfer
• silencer
• voyageur
• birr
• blur
• bur
• cur

Kids Definition

saboteur

noun

sab·​o·​teur ˌsab-ə-ˈtər 

-ˈt(y)u̇(ə)r

: a person who performs sabotage