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deserter

noun

/dɪˈzɜr tər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of deserter

An individual who abandons or leaves their assigned post, duty, or allegiance without authorization, often in the context of military service or a similar organized group.
"The deserter was apprehended and brought back to face military court."

Detailed meaning of deserter

A deserter is someone who intentionally and willfully withdraws from their obligations, disregarding their commitments and responsibilities. This act of desertion is typically considered a breach of trust and loyalty, as it involves leaving behind comrades, colleagues, or comrades-in-arms. Deserter is a term commonly used to describe someone who leaves the military without permission, often during times of conflict or war. However, the noun can also be applied to individuals who abandon other forms of organized groups, such as political movements or organizations. Desertion can carry legal consequences, including potential charges and penalties, as it is seen as a betrayal of the principles and expectations associated with the organization or group from which the individual deserts.

Example sentences containing deserter

1. His status changed from soldier to deserter after he fled the battlefield.
2. The search party was deployed to locate the missing deserter.
3. The deserter left his unit in the middle of the night, leaving his fellow soldiers in shock.
4. The military takes a strong stance against deserters, viewing their actions as a betrayal.
5. The deserter's actions undermined the trust and cohesion within the military ranks.
6. The deserter faced significant consequences upon being caught, including a dishonorable discharge.

History and etymology of deserter

The noun 'deserter' has an etymology rooted in Latin and Old French. It traces its origins to the Latin word 'desertor,' derived from 'deserere,' meaning 'to abandon' or 'forsake.' In medieval Latin, 'desertor' specifically referred to someone who had abandoned their military obligations. As the concept of organized military forces became more prominent in Europe, the term evolved into Old French as 'deserteor,' retaining its meaning of a person who abandons their military duty. Over time, it found its way into English as 'deserter,' maintaining its core sense of an individual who abandons or leaves their assigned post, duty, or allegiance without authorization, particularly in the context of military service or similar organized groups.

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Further usage examples of deserter

1. The family of the deserter was devastated by the news of his disappearance.
2. The deserter's abandonment of his duty had a demoralizing effect on the remaining troops.
3. The deserter's actions were viewed as a violation of the code of honor and loyalty.
4. The authorities issued a warrant for the arrest of the suspected deserter.
5. The deserter's decision to flee without warning left his superiors questioning his loyalty.
6. The deserter vanished into the night, leaving his comrades bewildered.
7. They branded him a deserter for fleeing the battlefield's chaos.
8. A court-martial awaits any confirmed deserter in the army.
9. The deserter's actions brought shame upon his family's name.
10. The commander vowed to catch the elusive deserter.
11. He feared being labeled a deserter if he left the unit.
12. Desertion was a grave offense during wartime.
13. The deserter sought refuge in a distant, secluded village.
14. The deserter's story remained a mystery for years.
15. Rumors spread about the deserter's whereabouts.
16. She empathized with the deserter's difficult decision.
17. The deserter's tale revealed the horrors of war.
18. The deserter's conscience weighed heavily on him.
19. Locating the deserter proved to be a daunting task.
20. The deserter's escape left a void in their ranks.
21. Deserters faced severe consequences under military law.
22. He confessed to being a deserter seeking redemption.
23. The deserter's fate rested in the hands of the court.
24. The deserter's absence weakened their unit's morale.
25. The deserter's departure marked a turning point in the conflict.