Definition

Noun: A person who abandons their allegiance, principles, or associates, especially in a time of need, and joins the opposing side. A turncoat is characterized by disloyalty and betrayal.

Usage

The word "turncoat" is a noun used to describe a person who has changed sides in a conflict or dispute, betraying their original group, cause, or beliefs. It carries a strong negative connotation of treachery and opportunism. It is often used in political, military, or ideological contexts.

Examples

• The general was branded a turncoat for surrendering his forces to the enemy.
• In the history books, he is remembered not as a reformer but as a turncoat who abandoned his party's core values.
• She felt like a turncoat for leaving the company to work for its main competitor.

Advanced Usage

• "To become a turncoat": This phrase describes the act of changing sides.
  • Faced with certain defeat, several soldiers chose to become turncoats.
• "Turncoat behavior": Used to describe actions characteristic of a traitor.
  • His turncoat behavior shocked his former allies.

Variants and Related Words

• Turn (verb): While the verb "to turn" has many meanings, in the context of betrayal, it can mean to change allegiance.
  • He turned against his own family.
• Turncoatism (noun, rare): The practice or behavior characteristic of a turncoat.

Synonyms

• Traitor: One who betrays a trust or allegiance.
• Defector: One who abandons a cause, nation, or group for another.
• Renegade: A person who deserts and betrays an organization, country, or set of principles.
• Apostate: A person who renounces a religious or political belief or principle.

Antonyms

• Loyalist: A person who remains loyal to the established ruler or government.
• Patriot: A person who vigorously supports their country and is prepared to defend it.
• Ally: A person or organization that cooperates with or helps another.

Idioms and Phrases

• "To show one's true colors": While not identical, this idiom relates to revealing one's true, often disloyal, character, which a turncoat ultimately does.
  • He showed his true colors when he sold the secret plans.

Noun

1. a disloyal person who betrays or deserts his cause or religion or political party or friend etc.