Definition

A person who leaves a military unit without permission and intends to stay away permanently.

Example

The soldier was labeled a deserter after he failed to return to his unit for over a month.

Conversation

Did you hear about that soldier who left the unit?

Yeah, I heard he became a deserter.

It's such a risky move; I wonder what made him do it.

I know, right? It could have serious consequences for him.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deserter → It is formed from "deserere" (meaning to abandon) and the suffix "-er" (meaning a person who). A deserter is a person who abandons their duty or post.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'abandons' ('deserere') their responsibilities — that's why a deserter is someone who leaves their post.

Visually Confused Words