Meaning & Definition of word "Betrayal"

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    Betrayal

    /bɪˈtreɪəl/

    noun:

    • 1. the act of betraying someone or something, or the state of being betrayed.
      • Example: His betrayal of her trust left her heartbroken.
    • 2. an act of disloyalty or treachery.
      • Example: The betrayal of the secret plans resulted in disastrous consequences.
    • 3. the violation of a person's trust or confidence.
      • Example: She felt that his sudden departure was a betrayal of their friendship.

    Etymology

    Middle English: from Old French 'trahier', which means to drag or pull away.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    a stab in the back:

    An act of betrayal, especially by a friend.

    trade in trust:

    To betray someone's trust for personal gain.

    double-cross:

    To betray someone who trusts you.

    Related Words

    traitor:

    A person who betrays someone or something.

    treason:

    The crime of betraying one's country.

    deceit:

    The action or practice of deceiving someone.

    Slang Meanings of betrayal

    Meaning: Backstabber

    Example Sentence: I thought we were friends, but he is such a backstabber.

    Meaning: Sellout

    Example Sentence: She called him a sellout for betraying his old team.