betrayed
UK: bɪˈtreɪd | US: bɪˈtreɪd
vt. (past tense of "betray")
- To deliver someone to an enemy by treachery or disloyalty.
- To reveal secrets or information deceitfully.
- To unintentionally show a feeling or quality.
The word "betrayed" originates from Middle English bitrayen, derived from Old French betrair (modern trahir), which combines the prefix be- (intensifying "thoroughly") and tray (from Latin tradere, meaning "to deliver"). The Latin tradere splits into trans- ("across") + dare ("to give"), reflecting the act of "handing over." Over time, betray evolved to emphasize deceitful delivery, and the suffix -ed marks its past tense form.
He felt betrayed when his friend leaked his confidential plans.
The spy betrayed his country by selling secrets to the enemy.
Her trembling voice betrayed her fear during the interview.
The documents betrayed evidence of corruption.
They betrayed their allies by breaking the treaty.