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.
Republican defections in the House of Representatives have repeatedly prompted symbolic rebukes of the Iran war. — Zachary Schermele, USA Today, 4 Aug. 2026 The company has suffered defections from its traditional cable and broadband businesses as younger consumers find different services to connect them to digital realms. — Brian Steinberg, Variety, 29 July 2026 If James’ defection seems destined to peel casual NBA viewers away from the Lake Show, the subsequent heightened interest for the teams repping the I-95 megalopolis should go a long way toward helping shore up the league’s national deliveries. — Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 27 July 2026 Gang Seong brings Ri Eung-ryeong back to North Korea, where he is presumably punished for his defection. — Kayti Burt, Time, 27 July 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

Rhymes for defection

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Browse Nearby Words

defectible
defection
defective
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Cite this Entry

“Defection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/defection. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on defection

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for defection

Nglish: Translation of defection for Spanish Speakers

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