Synonyms of betrayal

betrayal

noun

bi-ˈtrā(-ə)l 

as in treachery

the act or fact of violating the trust or confidence of another

the terrible betrayal of having her best friend reveal her confidences to others

Synonyms & Similar Words

• treachery
• treason
• deception
• infidelity
• disloyalty
• abandonment
• deceit
• perfidy
• backstabbing
• faithlessness
• unfaithfulness
• falseness
• lying
• sellout
• double cross
• falsity
• business
• desertion
• two-timing
• duplicity
• double-dealing
• informing
• fraud
• guile
• trickery
• two-facedness
• snitching
• talebearing

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• loyalty
• allegiance
• fidelity
• devotion
• faithfulness
• fealty
• steadfastness
• reliability
• trustworthiness
• dependability
• protection
• defense
• staunchness
• shield
• safeguard

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of betrayal

As the consequences of that initial act spread through the household, the story develops through status, bloodline and resentment, building into a period drama centered on betrayal, ambition and the struggle for position within the family. —Emiliano De Pablos, Variety, 24 Mar. 2026

Many of his colleagues regard this revelation as a betrayal. —Hannah Gold, Harpers Magazine, 24 Mar. 2026

When institutions such as churches, schools or unions fail to stop abuse or respond appropriately, that institutional betrayal can also add to the harm caused by the original abuse. —Anne P. Deprince, The Conversation, 23 Mar. 2026

But Don José vows bloody revenge for her betrayal. —Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Mar. 2026