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.

The U.S. auto industry faces sobering new math: Some one million prospective buyers have defected from the new-car market since the start of the decade—and they aren’t expected back soon.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

Two senior aides to the leader of the Conservatives in the Welsh Parliament have defected to Reform UK just days before the Tories' party conference.

From BBC • Feb. 12, 2026

So far no senior government or military figures have defected or spoken out against leadership, even as the crackdown on demonstrators has intensified.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 12, 2026

Among zoomers, young men are now more religious than young women—and women have defected from the Christian faith in larger numbers than young men.

From Slate • Oct. 11, 2024

In recent years, several top leaders have defected from the party.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2024