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desertion

noun

/dɪˈzɜr ʃən/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of desertion

The act of willfully and permanently abandoning one's post, duty, or allegiance without permission or lawful justification.
"The soldier's comrades felt a sense of betrayal after his desertion."

Detailed meaning of desertion

It denotes the intentional act of leaving behind a position, organization, or group to which one had a commitment or obligation. Desertion often occurs in the context of military service, where it involves the unauthorized departure of a soldier from their assigned unit or from the military altogether. However, desertion can also pertain to other contexts, such as civil or political organizations, where an individual abandons their role or responsibilities without proper consent or justification. Desertion is typically seen as a breach of loyalty, trust, or duty, often carrying legal consequences and disciplinary actions. It is viewed as a serious offense that undermines the integrity, cohesion, and effectiveness of the entity from which one deserts.

Example sentences containing desertion

1. The soldier's desertion from the army resulted in a warrant for his arrest.
2. The act of desertion is considered a serious offense in the military.
3. The captain was shocked by the sudden desertion of several members of his crew.
4. The organization faced challenges due to the desertion of key members.
5. Desertion during wartime is often met with severe consequences.
6. The soldier was court-martialed for his desertion and stripped of his rank.

History and etymology of desertion

The noun 'desertion' finds its etymological roots in the Latin word 'desertio,' which is derived from the verb 'deserere.' This Latin term, 'deserere,' encompasses the notion of abandonment or forsaking. As societies and militaries organized, the concept of individuals willfully and permanently abandoning their duties, posts, or allegiances became increasingly significant. This led to the emergence of the Old French term 'desercion' and, subsequently, Middle English 'desercioun,' both of which retained the core sense of willful abandonment. Over time, 'desertion' became firmly established in the English language, referring to the act of willfully and permanently abandoning one's post, duty, or allegiance without permission or lawful justification, particularly in the context of military or organizational commitments.

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Further usage examples of desertion

1. The family struggled to cope with the emotional aftermath of their son's desertion.
2. The general implemented stricter measures to prevent instances of desertion in the ranks.
3. The deserter's actions cast a shadow over the unit's morale and trust.
4. The army implemented a program to support veterans who experienced post-war desertion.
5. The organization worked to address the underlying issues that led to employee desertion.
6. The sudden desertion of troops weakened our defenses.
7. Desertion from the army was punishable by severe penalties.
8. His desertion left a void in our team's leadership.
9. Desertion during wartime was seen as an act of betrayal.
10. The general lamented the increasing rate of desertion.
11. Desertion often stemmed from the horrors of war.
12. She couldn't bear the guilt that came with desertion.
13. Desertion from the mission jeopardized the operation.
14. Desertion was a stain on his otherwise honorable record.
15. The soldiers faced court-martial for their desertion.
16. Desertion was the only way to escape the oppressive regime.
17. The consequences of desertion were widely known.
18. Desertion shattered the unity of their once loyal group.
19. Desertion was a last resort for the disillusioned.
20. His desertion haunted him long after the war ended.
21. The commander grappled with the problem of desertion.
22. Desertion was a desperate act born out of despair.
23. Desertion was the ultimate act of defiance against tyranny.
24. The policy aimed to reduce desertion rates in the army.
25. Desertion eroded the trust among the ranks.