treasonous

Treasonous is an adjective used to describe conduct or individuals that betray a government or state, or that align with enemies against one’s country. In common usage, it characterizes acts seen as betraying loyalty, such as providing aid to hostile powers or participating in a plot to overthrow the government. The term is often loaded with moral and political significance, and its application can be controversial in debates over dissent, security, and civil liberties.

Legal context: Treason is a formal crime defined by law, and the precise definition varies by jurisdiction. In the United States, treason is narrowly defined in the Constitution as levying war against the United States or adhering to its enemies, giving them aid and comfort, and it requires testimony of two witnesses or a confession in open court. Other countries refer to similar offenses as high treason or treason, with varying elements and penalties. Beyond formal law, many jurisdictions distinguish treasonous acts from mere sedition, criticism, or political opposition, though rhetoric can blur lines in practice.

Etymology and usage: The noun treason derives from Old French traison (betrayal), from Latin traditio; treasonous formed in English by adding the suffix -ous to treason. In modern writing, treasonous is used to describe actions, plans, or sentiments that are claimed to undermine the state’s security or loyalty, though it is not always a legally proven designation.

See also: Treason, Espionage, Sedition.