Meaning & use

treason

noun·Advanced

The crime of betraying one's country, especially by attempting to overthrow its government or aiding its enemies.

See it in a sentence

The general was executed for treason after secretly negotiating with the invading army.

Leaking classified defense plans to a rival nation can be prosecuted as treason.

A note on using this word

Treason is a specific legal charge in most countries, distinct from the broader, more general idea of 'betrayal.'

Words with a similar meaning

betrayalsedition

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

loyaltyallegiance

Make it your own

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