desertion
nounfeminineformal/dɨzɨɾˈsɐ̃w̃/low
de·ser·ção
Definition
The act of illegally leaving the armed forces or abandoning a duty or obligation to which one was committed.
The soldier was tried for desertion during the conflict.
Desertion from a position of responsibility is considered a serious offense.
Common collocations
military desertioncharged with desertioncrime of desertion
Etymology
Do latim 'desertio, desertionis' (abandono).