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.
That legislation passed both the House and Senate with a handful of GOP defections. — David Sivak, The Washington Examiner, 25 June 2026 The loss of the UAE is the single biggest defection in OPEC’s history. — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 28 Apr. 2026 If all House members are voting and present – which is unlikely – House Speaker Mike Johnson can afford three GOP defections. — ABC News, 8 June 2026 Reformist insiders, shifting alliances, and defections among coalition partners ultimately unraveled the governing framework. — Wesley Alexander Hill, Forbes.com, 1 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 9 Jul. 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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