Traitor

/ˈtreɪ.tər/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who betrays a friend, country, principle, etc.

The spy was labeled a traitor for leaking sensitive information to the enemy.

A person who is disloyal to a cause or to those who trust them.

Many saw him as a traitor after he switched sides in the political conflict.

Someone who commits treason.

He was tried as a traitor and sentenced to life in prison.

A person who betrays their own people or group.

The community turned against her, calling her a traitor for her actions.

An individual who breaks trust in a relationship.

To betray your best friend is the act of a traitor.

Middle English, from Old French 'traitor', from Latin 'traditor', meaning one who delivers or surrenders.

sell out

To betray someone or something, especially for personal gain.

double agent

A spy who pretends to be loyal to one side while secretly working for another.

playing both sides

To support or manipulate two opposing groups for one’s own benefit.

betrayal

The act of betraying someone or something.

treason

The crime of betraying one's country.

defection

The desertion of one's country or cause in favor of an opposing one.

snitch

He’s nothing but a snitch for telling the authorities.

rat

Don’t be a rat by giving away your friends' secrets.