Traitor
As a Noun
- A person who betrays their country, cause, or trust, especially by aiding an enemy.
- Someone who is disloyal to a group, friend, or organization they were once committed to.
As Other Form
- Treason (Noun): The act of betraying one’s country, often by attempting to overthrow the government.
- Treasonable (Adjective): Related to or deserving punishment for betrayal or treason.
Word History
The word traitor comes from the Latin traditor, meaning “one who delivers or hands over,” from tradere (to hand over, betray). Over time, it came to refer specifically to someone who betrays trust, especially in political or personal contexts.
Examples
- The spy was labeled a traitor for leaking national secrets.
- He felt like a traitor when he sided with the opposing team.
- History remembers traitors harshly, often as symbols of betrayal.
Synonyms
Betrayer, turncoat, backstabber, double-crosser, defector
Related Words
Deception, treachery, disloyalty, perfidy
Antonyms
Loyalist, patriot, ally, faithful friend
