# renegade

/ˈɹɛnəˌɡeɪd/ (US) · /ɹˈɛnəɡˌeɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/renegade
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

someone who leaves their group, country, or set of beliefs to join the other side. You use this for a person who refuses to follow the rules and acts independently.

For teachers: a person who deserts and betrays an organisation, country, or set of principles. Often carries a connotation of rebellious independence or lawlessness.

## Examples

- The renegade soldier joined the enemy forces.
- He was considered a renegade by his former colleagues after he leaked the company's secrets to the press.
- The film depicts a renegade detective who ignores bureaucratic procedures to pursue a personal vendetta against the city's most powerful criminal syndicate.

## Usage notes

- Often used attributively as a modifier before another noun (e.g., 'renegade priest').

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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.