treason
3 synonyms and 0 antonyms for treason, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The crime of betraying one's own country, especially by helping its enemies or attempting to overthrow its government.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use treason
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French traïson, ultimately from Latin trādō, "to hand over or betray" — the same root as "tradition" and "betray."
Full origin of treason →Frequently asked questions
What does “treason” mean?
The word “treason” means the crime of betraying one's own country, especially by helping its enemies or attempting to overthrow its government. In plain terms, treason is the most serious kind of betrayal — turning against your own country.
How do you pronounce “treason”?
“Treason” is pronounced TREE-zuhn (/ˈtɹiː.zən/ in IPA).
How do you use “treason” in a sentence?
Here is “treason” used in a sentence: “He was charged with treason for leaking military secrets to a hostile power.”
What part of speech is “treason”?
“Treason” is a noun.
Where does the word “treason” come from?
The word “treason” comes from Latin. From Old French traïson, ultimately from Latin trādō, "to hand over or betray" — the same root as "tradition" and "betray.".
Is “treason” a common word?
“Treason” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between treason and sedition?
Treason is the crime of betraying one's own country, especially by aiding its enemies or trying to overthrow its government, while sedition refers to inciting rebellion or resistance against authority without necessarily reaching the level of betrayal treason implies. Treason is generally considered the more severe charge because it involves active betrayal rather than mere incitement.
What is the difference between treason and espionage?
Treason specifically requires betraying one's own country, often by a citizen owing allegiance to it, whereas espionage refers more broadly to spying or secretly gathering information, which can be committed by anyone regardless of nationality. Espionage can be one method by which treason is carried out, but the two terms are not interchangeable.
Can treason be committed against an organization rather than a country?
No, in its proper legal and dictionary sense, treason applies specifically to betraying one's own country, such as by helping its enemies or attempting to overthrow its government. Using 'treason' for betrayal of a company, team, or group is informal or figurative rather than the literal definition.