Definition

A person who deserts and betrays an organization, country, or set of principles.

Example

He was considered a renegado for leaving the group and sharing their secrets.

Conversation

Did you hear about that renegado in the band?

Yeah, I heard he left because he wanted to do his own thing.

It's kind of brave to be a renegado like that, don't you think?

Definitely! It takes guts to go against the norm.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Renegado is derived from the Spanish word 'renegado', which comes from the Latin 'renegare' (meaning to deny or reject). The Latin root is formed from 're-' (meaning back) and 'negare' (meaning to deny). Thus, 'renegado' refers to someone who has denied or rejected their faith or allegiance.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who has 'denied' ('negare') their previous beliefs or loyalties, as 'renegado' means a person who has turned their back on their former faith.

Visually Confused Words