Definition

The act of being disloyal or unfaithful to someone or something, often by revealing secrets or breaking trust.

Example

His betrayal of his best friend shocked everyone in the group.

Conversation

I just can't believe that he would do something like that; it felt like a real betrayal.

I know, right? It's hard to trust people after they’ve let you down.

Exactly! It changes the way you see your friendships when there's betrayal involved.

For sure. It makes you question who you can really count on.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Betrayal → It is formed from "be-" (meaning to cause to be) and "tray" (from Old French *trahir*, meaning to deceive or betray). The word "betrayal" refers to the act of causing someone to be deceived or let down.

Memory Tip

Think of 'causing to be' ('be-') and 'deceiving' ('tray') — that's why betrayal means to let someone down or deceive them.

Visually Confused Words