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Definition of defection

defection

/dɪˈfɛkʃən/
de · fec · tion
Plural:defections
•
Adjective:defective
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defection Lexical Profile

defection Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The conscious abandonment of allegiance or duty to a country, political party, cause, or organization, often in order to join an opposing group.

Example

"The sudden defection of several senior lawmakers to the rival party threatened the stability of the ruling coalition."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for defection
Antonyms
View all antonyms for defection

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'defection' (abandoning a country, party, or cause) with 'defect' as a noun (an imperfection or flaw); while both share the same Latin root, 'defection' almost exclusively refers to an act of disloyalty or desertion.

• Rhymes for defection

• Nearby Words

defecate
defecation
defect
defection
defective
defectively
defectiveness

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the mid-16th century from Latin defectio ('a revolt, desertion, or failing'), from the verb deficere ('to desert, fail, or forsake'), combining de- ('away from') and facere ('to do or make').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Defection. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/defection
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