Definition

A person who betrays their own country by helping an enemy, often acting as a collaborator or traitor.

Example

During the war, he was labeled a quisling for assisting the invading forces.

Conversation

Have you heard about that politician who is seen as a quisling?

Yeah, it's really sad to see someone betray their own people like that.

I can't believe they would choose to side with the enemy.

It definitely makes you question their loyalty and intentions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Quisling originates from the name of Vidkun Quisling, a Norwegian politician who collaborated with the Nazis during World War II. The term has since come to mean a traitor or someone who betrays their own country by aiding an invading enemy.

Memory Tip

Think of Vidkun Quisling, who betrayed his own country, to remember that a 'quisling' refers to someone who is a traitor or collaborator.

Visually Confused Words