turncoat

[ˈtərnkoʊt]

turncoat Definition

a person who deserts one party or cause in order to join an opposing one.

Using turncoat: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "turncoat" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He was branded a turncoat for switching sides during the election.

  • Example

    The spy was a turncoat who betrayed his country.

  • Example

    She was accused of being a turncoat by her former colleagues.

turncoat Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for turncoat

Phrases with turncoat

  • the practice of changing political parties or affiliations for personal gain

    Example

    The public is tired of turncoat politics and politicians who switch sides for their own benefit.

  • a soldier who switches sides during a war or conflict

    Example

    The general ordered the execution of the turncoat soldiers who had defected to the enemy's side.

  • turncoat friend

    a friend who betrays your trust or loyalty

    Example

    I thought he was my friend, but he turned out to be a turncoat who spread rumors about me.

Origins of turncoat

from 'turn' + 'coat', meaning a change of clothing, suggesting a change of allegiance

📌

Summary: turncoat in Brief

'Turncoat' [ˈtərnkoʊt] refers to a person who abandons one group or cause to join an opposing one. It is often used to describe political or military defection, as in 'The spy was a turncoat who betrayed his country.' The term can also apply to personal relationships, as in 'I thought he was my friend, but he turned out to be a turncoat who spread rumors about me.' Synonyms include 'traitor,' 'defector,' and 'renegade.'