betrayed
word · lemma: betray
Definition
Past form of 'betray'. It means to be disloyal to someone, break their trust, or give away a secret or important information that should have been protected.
Usage & Nuances
Often used for personal relationships, secrets, and loyalty: 'betray a friend', 'betray trust', 'betray the country'. It is stronger and more emotional than 'disappoint'. It can also be used less literally in phrases like 'His face betrayed his fear', where it means something showed his true feelings.
Example Sentences
He betrayed his best friend for money.
basic
She felt betrayed when I told her secret.
basic
The spy betrayed his country.
basic
I trusted him for years, and he betrayed me in one moment.
natural
Her voice was calm, but her eyes betrayed her anger.
natural
It wasn't just a mistake—it felt like he betrayed our whole team.
natural