# desertion

/dɪˈzɝʃən/ (US) · /dɪzˈɜːʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/desertion
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

the act of leaving a group or organization, especially an army, without permission. It is a serious crime in the military.

For teachers: the act of leaving a military unit or organization without authority or without intent to return. Often carries legal consequences, particularly within military law.

## Examples

- The soldier faced a court-martial for desertion.
- During the long winter campaign, several soldiers were punished for desertion after they left their posts to find shelter.
- The general's memoirs detail the psychological toll of desertion on the remaining troops, noting how the loss of a few men significantly eroded the unit's morale.

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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.