desertion
Americannoun
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the act of deserting or abandoning or the state of being deserted or abandoned
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law wilful abandonment, esp of one's spouse or children, without consent and in breach of obligations
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of desertion
1585–95; < Late Latin dēsertiōn- (stem of dēsertiō ) < Latin dēsert ( us ) ( see desert 1) + -iōn- -ion
Vocabulary lists containing desertion
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"Ardern's move is likely to be seen as symbolic of this broader pattern. To some it will read as desertion," Alan Gamlen, director of the Australian National University's migration hub, told the BBC.
From BBC ● Mar. 2, 2026
The charges included voluntary surrender, attempting to voluntarily surrender and desertion from a military unit.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 22, 2025
It was a turning point in a youth-led uprising that started on September 25: Rajoelina fled the country that weekend, impeached days later for desertion of duty.
From Barron's ● Oct. 16, 2025
This clueless performance will lead to a completely empty Rose Bowl and eventual desertion of NIL sponsors.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 13, 2025
Cleopatra was also held responsible for Mark Antony’s desertion.
From "Sterling Biographies®: Cleopatra: Egypt's Last and Greatest Queen" by Susan Blackaby
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