Betrayal

/bɪˈtreɪəl/

Meaning & Definition

noun
the act of betraying someone or something, or the state of being betrayed.
His betrayal of her trust left her heartbroken.
an act of disloyalty or treachery.
The betrayal of the secret plans resulted in disastrous consequences.
the violation of a person's trust or confidence.
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

Slang Meanings

Backstabber
I thought we were friends, but he is such a backstabber.
Sellout
She called him a sellout for betraying his old team.