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