Capitulator

A capitulator is an individual who surrenders or yields, especially under agreed-upon terms or conditions, often in a military or political context. This act typically involves giving up resistance or control, acknowledging defeat or the superior power of an opponent. The capitulator's actions reflect a decision to cease fighting, negotiation, or any form of opposition, and to accept the terms imposed by the dominant force. The role encompasses the responsibility for the safety of their own self and potentially the safety of their people while acknowledging the consequences of their choice. The decision often carries implications of loss, constraint, and sometimes, even shame.

Capitulator meaning with examples

• The general, facing overwhelming odds and a dwindling supply of ammunition, was forced to become a capitulator. He sent a messenger to parley with the enemy commander, hoping to negotiate the terms of surrender and save his remaining soldiers from certain death. His actions were a mix of bravery and sorrow, knowing the price of surrender was honor but also the end of unnecessary lives.
• Following weeks of siege and dwindling resources, the city council, facing starvation and relentless bombardment, appointed a representative to act as a capitulator. They hoped to find a solution to the crisis that was quickly unfolding and to present terms of capitulation to prevent the city from further decimation, and hopefully allow the civilians a chance to escape.
• The negotiator, weary from endless rounds of stalemate talks, realized he'd become a capitulator to the demands of the opposing side. His initial goal of reaching a compromise had slowly eroded, and he understood that a complete surrender of certain aspects of their position was the only way forward, even if it meant giving up valuable ground.
• After years of relentless pressure and internal dissent, the company's board of directors, reluctant capitulators, finally gave in to the activist investors' demands. They agreed to restructure the company and replace key executives, hoping to appease the critics and save the company from a hostile takeover which could lead to its demise.
• The revolutionary leader, after holding out for months against the regime's relentless campaign, was now forced to decide if he could act as the capitulator, and whether he would accept the terms of amnesty, or continue to resist, which could involve immense bloodshed among the populace. After hours of contemplation he decided to act, and chose to accept the terms.