TURN COAT Meaning and
Definition
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A turncoat refers to an individual who changes or shifts their loyalty, allegiance, or opinions during a certain situation or period of time. The term is often used to describe someone who abandons one group, party, or cause, and joins or supports an opposing one. A turncoat is characterized by their act of betrayal or disloyalty, where they betray the trust placed in them by their previous affiliations.
The term "turncoat" has historically been associated with politics, particularly during times of intense conflict, ideological disputes, or power struggles. It is often used to describe politicians or public figures who abandon their original party or beliefs for personal gain or due to changing circumstances. Turncoats can be seen as opportunistic individuals who prioritize their own interests over principles of integrity and loyalty.
The act of being a turncoat can have far-reaching consequences, as it tends to generate mistrust and skepticism from both the party abandoned and the party joined. Turncoats may be viewed as untrustworthy, lacking in principles, or driven solely by self-interest. Consequently, their actions can be met with anger, disappointment, or scorn.
Overall, a turncoat can be seen as a person who undergoes a complete reversal in their loyalty or beliefs, often seen as an act of betrayal or disloyalty to another group or cause.
Common Misspellings for TURN COAT
- tyrncoat
- terncoat
- 4urn coat
- rurn coat
- furn coat
- gurn coat
- yurn coat
- 6urn coat
- 5urn coat
- tyrn coat
- thrn coat
- tjrn coat
- tirn coat
- t8rn coat
- t7rn coat
- tuen coat
- tudn coat
- tufn coat
- tutn coat
- tu5n coat
Etymology of TURN COAT
The term "turncoat" originated in 16th century England and is derived from the Middle English phrase "turne cote". It comes from the idea of someone who changes their coat to the opposite side or changes their allegiance. In England, soldiers would wear coats with distinct colors or insignias based on their loyalty and allegiances. When a soldier switched sides, they would figuratively "turn their coat" to display the colors of their new allegiance, hence the term "turncoat". Over time, the phrase became synonymous with someone who betrays or switches sides in any situation, not just within military contexts.
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