# defectors

/dɪˈfɛktɝz/ (US) · /dɪfˈɛktəz/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/defectors
Updated: 2026-10-13

## Definition

people who leave their own country, political party, or group to join an opposing one. This usually happens because they disagree with the original group or want to escape a difficult situation.

For teachers: individuals who abandon their country, cause, or organization in favour of an opposing one. Often carries a political connotation involving the crossing of borders or the switching of ideological allegiances.

## Examples

- Many defectors crossed the border to find safety.
- The government offered protection to the defectors in exchange for information about the military's secret plans.
- Historians often analyze the testimonies of defectors to gain insights into the internal workings of secretive regimes that are otherwise inaccessible to outside observers.

## Synonyms

deserter, renegade, traitor, turncoats

## Antonyms

loyalists, adherent, supporter

## Usage notes

- The plural form of 'defector'; usually refers to people moving between political states or military units.

---

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.