Deserter

/dɪˈzɜːrtər/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who abandons duty or commitment, particularly in a military context.

The army is on high alert for any deserter who may attempt to escape into enemy territory.

Someone who leaves a group or cause abruptly and without explanation.

He was labeled a deserter after he quit the organization during a critical campaign.

A person who abandons their spouse or family.

She felt betrayed by her husband, who was nothing but a deserter in the eyes of their children.

From the Latin 'desertor', from 'deserere' meaning 'to abandon'.

desert one's post

To leave one's duty or responsibilities abruptly.

deserter from the ranks

Someone who has left an organization or group, typically in a disloyal way.

desertion

The act of leaving one's duty or post without permission.

defection

The abandonment of a duty or allegiance.

AWOL (Absent Without Leave)

He went AWOL after the first major battle.

Ghosting

She ghosted her responsibilities, leaving without informing anyone.