defection

noun

de·​fec·​tion di-ˈfek-shən 

: 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

That means Johnson can afford only one GOP defection to keep his seat of power. —Mike Lillis, The Hill, 11 Dec. 2024

The bad quarterback play, Davante Adams’ defection and season-ending injuries to four key defensive players were valid excuses before O’Connell’s injury, and now maybe the results of the final four games don’t matter. —Vic Tafur, The Athletic, 9 Dec. 2024

Republicans hold very narrow majorities in both chambers, particularly in the House — leaving little to no room for defections, assuming Democratic lawmakers would remain united in opposition. —Adam S. Minsky, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024

O'Connell's ballot measure seems to have the backing of Nashville's political establishment, but there have been some notable defections. —Kelly Tyko, Axios, 22 Oct. 2024

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