traitor etymology

Etymology:

  • Middle English traytour, from Anglo-Norman French traitur, from Late Latin tractor (nominative traitor), from Latin traditor "betrayer, treacherous traitor," from tradere "to hand over, deliver, surrender," from trans- "across, over" + dare "to give."

Meaning and Origin:

The word "traitor" refers to a person who betrays a trust or betrays their country, cause, or group. It has a long and complex history, dating back to ancient Rome.

  • In ancient Rome, "traditor" was used to describe someone who betrayed a political or military trust. The punishment for treason was typically severe, including execution.
  • During the Middle Ages, the word "traitor" was used to describe someone who betrayed their feudal lord. Treason was considered a serious crime, and traitors could be executed or exiled.
  • In the modern era, the word "traitor" has continued to be used to describe someone who betrays their country or cause. However, the definition of treason has varied from country to country and has been subject to political and legal debate.

Today, the word "traitor" is often used in a derogatory way to describe someone who is perceived to have betrayed their country or cause. It is a powerful word that can evoke strong emotions, and it should be used with caution.

traitor relate terms

  • tradition

    Etymology Latin traditio traditionis a handing over delivery transmission surren

  • trans

    Etymology The word trans originates from the Latin prefix trans which means across

  • treason

    Etymology Middle English tresoun Old French treson traïson Latin traditio delive

  • treason

    Etymology Middle English tresoun Old French treson traïson Latin traditio delive

  • trans

    Etymology The word trans originates from the Latin prefix trans which means across

  • tradition

    Etymology Latin traditio traditionis a handing over delivery transmission surren

  • high

    Etymology The word high derives from the Middle English word hie which traces its ro