Betrayal is a term that is often used to describe situations where someone has been let down or deceived by someone close to them. It is a deeply painful experience that can leave a lasting impact on a person’s life. Betrayals can occur in a variety of contexts, from personal relationships to professional settings, and can take many different forms.
Definitions
Betrayal is the act of breaking a trust or confidence that has been placed in someone. It can involve lying, cheating, stealing, or other forms of deception. Betrayals can be intentional or unintentional, and can result in a wide range of consequences for the person who has been betrayed.
Origin
The word “betrayal” comes from the Old French word “betrair,” which means to “deliver over” or “hand over.” The term was first used in English in the 13th century, and has since been used to describe a variety of situations where someone has been let down or deceived by someone else.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, betrayal is defined as “the act of betraying someone or something, or the fact of being betrayed.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the action of betraying one’s country, a group, or a person; treachery.”
Associations
Betrayals are often associated with feelings of anger, sadness, and betrayal. They can lead to a breakdown in trust between individuals, and can have long-term effects on relationships and personal well-being.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of betrayals include deception, treachery, disloyalty, infidelity, and backstabbing.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of betrayals include loyalty, honesty, faithfulness, trustworthiness, and reliability.
The same root words
The root word of betrayals is “betray,” which comes from the Old French word “betrair.” Other words that share this root include “traitor,” “treason,” and “treachery.”
Example Sentences
- She felt a deep sense of betrayal when she found out that her best friend had been talking behind her back.
- The company’s CEO was accused of betrayal after it was revealed that he had been embezzling funds.
- His betrayal of his country was seen as an act of treason.
- Despite the betrayal, she was determined to move on and rebuild her life.
- His actions were a clear betrayal of the trust that had been placed in him.