# deserter

/ˈdɛzɝtɝ/ (US) · /dɪzˈɜːtɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/deserter
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

a soldier who leaves their army without permission and does not return. This is a serious crime because it puts the rest of the team in danger.

For teachers: a person who leaves their military post or unit without authority and with the intent to remain away permanently. Often carries a legal or disciplinary connotation.

## Examples

- The soldier was labeled a deserter after he fled the camp.
- During the war, the general issued a warning that any deserter would be treated as a traitor.
- The historical record shows that while some soldiers were genuine deserters, others simply sought to avoid the horrors of the front lines for a short period before returning to their units.

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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.