The term “deserter” refers to a person who abandons or leaves a person, group, cause, or duty, especially in a time of need or danger. The term is often associated with military contexts, where a deserter abandons their post or refuses to fulfill their responsibilities, but it can also apply in personal, social, or professional situations. A deserter may leave a commitment, relationship, or cause without prior notice or justifiable reason, typically out of fear, selfishness, or a lack of loyalty. The label carries a strong negative connotation, as it implies betrayal or failure to uphold responsibilities.
Example Sentences
- The soldier was court-martialed for being a deserter after abandoning his post during battle.
- She felt betrayed by her best friend, who acted as a deserter during a difficult time in her life.
- The deserter left the organization in the middle of an important project, causing delays and frustration.
- His actions as a deserter during the crisis led to the failure of their mission.
- Many viewed him as a deserter after he left the team just when they needed him the most.
- The company took legal action against the deserter who abandoned the job without giving proper notice.
- As a deserter of the group, she left without a word, leaving everyone puzzled and disappointed.
- The deserter was branded with dishonor for fleeing the battlefield instead of standing and fighting.
- After the deserter left, the remaining members of the team struggled to complete the project on time.
- The deserter faced harsh consequences for abandoning their responsibilities in a moment of crisis.
Synonyms
- Traitor
- Abandoner
- Defector
- Runaway
- Flee-er
- Escapee
- Turncoat
- Renegade
- Betrayer
- Rebel
Antonyms
- Loyalist
- Supporter
- Follower
- Adherent
- Defender
- Champion
- Devotee
- Ally
- Comrade
- Participant
Related Words
- Desertion
- Betrayal
- Abandonment
- Disloyalty
- Rebellion
- Defection
- Escape
- Renegade behavior
- Cowardice
- Fidelity
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Run away: To leave a place or situation, often to avoid responsibility or danger, like a deserter.
- Turn one’s back on: To abandon or reject someone or something, especially when they need support.
- Leave behind: To abandon something or someone, typically out of neglect or irresponsibility.
- Walk away from: To leave or abandon a responsibility or commitment.
- Drop out of: To quit or leave an activity, especially without completing the task or commitment.
Idiomatic Expressions
- Bail out: To abandon someone or something, often in a critical moment or when it becomes too difficult.
- Throw in the towel: To give up or surrender, often by abandoning a cause or responsibility.
- Turn tail: To run away from a situation, especially in fear or without facing up to one’s duty.
- Abandon ship: To leave a failing or doomed situation, often at the last moment.
- Desert someone: To leave someone in a difficult situation, often betraying them in the process.
The term “deserter” is typically used in contexts where a person abandons their duties or responsibilities, particularly in military or group settings. Synonyms like “traitor,” “defector,” and “renegade” emphasize the negative, often betrayal-like aspect of desertion, while antonyms like “loyalist” and “supporter” represent individuals who remain committed. Related words like “desertion” and “betrayal” capture the emotional and moral consequences of abandonment, while phrasal verbs like “turn one’s back on” and idioms like “throw in the towel” highlight the act of quitting or leaving behind a responsibility. Deserters are often viewed with disdain, as their actions undermine collective efforts or responsibilities.
