Recreant

A 'recreant' is a person who is cowardly, especially one who betrays their duty or principles. It implies a failure of courage, integrity, or loyalty, often in a situation requiring bravery or adherence to a moral code. This word suggests a shameful act of desertion, whether physical or moral, and a profound lack of commitment to a cause or responsibility. It carries a strong connotation of dishonor and disgrace for their perceived failure of values.

Recreant meaning with examples

• The knight, once renowned for his valor, was revealed as a Recreant when he fled the battlefield, abandoning his comrades to face the enemy's wrath alone. This cowardly act ruined his reputation.
• Accused of selling secrets to the enemy, the general was branded a recreant. His betrayal of his country and fellow soldiers shocked everyone, destroying the nation's morale and trust.
• Despite his pledge to fight for the cause, he proved himself a Recreant by refusing to support his fellow protestors, betraying the very ideals they had all stood for, causing dissent.
• The politician, previously lauded for his integrity, became a Recreant when he accepted bribes from lobbyists, abandoning his promises to his constituents, leading to a downfall.
• Faced with a challenge, the athlete’s failure to perform under pressure exposed him as a Recreant, as he backed down, despite all the training, in front of all the fans.