# defection

/dɪˈfɛkʃən/ (US) · /dɪfˈɛkʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/defection
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

the act of leaving a group, country, or organization to join a different one. It is often used when someone leaves their own side to join the enemy.

For teachers: the act of leaving one's own country, party, or organization to join another, especially an opposing one. Often carries a political or military connotation.

## Examples

- The defection of the general caused a major shift in the war.
- The government offered a safe passage to any citizen who wished to defect to the neighboring country.
- The sudden defection of several high-ranking officials raised serious questions about the internal stability of the administration and its ability to maintain a unified front.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.