defection
noun
de·fec·tion
di-ˈfek-shən 
: conscious abandonment of allegiance or duty (as to a person, cause, or doctrine) : desertion
Examples of defection in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Filling the seat puts pressure on House Speaker Mike Johnson
With such tight numbers, Republicans can afford only three defections to pass a piece of legislation with a majority vote.
—
Laura Gersony, AZCentral.com, 15 July 2025
The House passed the bill 218-214, with only two Republican defections.
‘BEAUTIFUL’ BILL 2.0?
—Washington Examiner Staff, The Washington Examiner, 4 July 2025
With a razor-thin majority, Johnson can afford only three defections if all members are voting and present.
—Lauren Peller, ABC News, 2 July 2025
Republicans hold a 53 to 47 majority and face United Democratic opposition, and the defection of at least two of their members.
—Taylor Wilson, USA Today, 1 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for defection
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Laura Gersony, AZCentral.com, 15 July 2025
The House passed the bill 218-214, with only two Republican defections.
‘BEAUTIFUL’ BILL 2.0?
—Washington Examiner Staff, The Washington Examiner, 4 July 2025
With a razor-thin majority, Johnson can afford only three defections if all members are voting and present.
—Lauren Peller, ABC News, 2 July 2025
Republicans hold a 53 to 47 majority and face United Democratic opposition, and the defection of at least two of their members.
—Taylor Wilson, USA Today, 1 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for defection
Cite this Entry
“Defection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/defection. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.
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