deserter
UK: dɪˈzɜːtə(r) | US: dɪˈzɜːrtər
n. a person who abandons their duty, allegiance, or post without permission
n. (military) a soldier who leaves the army without authorization
The word "deserter" originates from the Latin desertus, past participle of deserere ("to abandon"), combining de- (indicating reversal) + serere ("to join, bind"). The suffix -er (from Old English -ere) denotes an agent performing the action. Thus, a "deserter" is literally "one who abandons." The term gained prominence in military contexts during the 17th century, reflecting societal emphasis on duty and discipline.
The army court-martialed the deserter for fleeing during battle.
Historically, deserters faced severe punishment, including execution.
He was labeled a deserter after leaving his post without notice.
The novel portrays a deserter struggling with guilt and survival.
During wartime, governments often imposed harsh penalties on deserters.