Betray

Definition

Betray means to be disloyal to someone or something by revealing secrets or breaking trust. It can also mean unintentionally revealing feelings or intentions. As a verb, it describes the act of deceiving or exposing someone’s secrets or trust.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɪˈtreɪ/
• Respelling: bih-TRAY

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɪˈtreɪ/
• Respelling: bih-TRAY

Etymology

The word "betray" originates from the Old French "betrayer," meaning "to mislead, deceive." This term evolved from the Latin "tradere," meaning "to hand over" or "deliver up," reflecting the act of disloyalty or exposing someone to harm by giving them away.

Derivatives

• Betrayal (noun)
• Betrayer (noun)
• Betraying (verb)
• Betrayed (verb, past tense)
• Self-betrayal (noun)

Synonyms

• Deceive
• Double-cross
• Expose

Antonyms

• Protect
• Defend
• Loyalty

Usage

The verb "betray" is used to describe acts of disloyalty or breaking trust, often leading to harm. For example, "He betrayed her trust by revealing her secrets." It can also describe unintentionally revealing emotions, as in "His face betrayed his excitement."

Related Terms

• Treachery: Betrayal of trust; deceptive action or nature.
• Disloyalty: The quality of being unfaithful or failing to support someone or something.
• Backstabbing: The act of harming someone by betrayal or deceit, especially secretly.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To deliver someone to an enemy by treachery or disloyalty: Refers to an intentional act of breaking trust, often in ways that cause harm.
  • Example: "The spy betrayed his country by passing secrets to the enemy."
• To unintentionally reveal something hidden: Refers to an unintentional display of emotions, thoughts, or intentions.
  • Example: "His eyes betrayed his fear, even though he tried to appear calm."