Renegade

A renegade is an individual who deserts or betrays a group, cause, or set of principles, often for personal gain or because of a disagreement. This defection can involve abandoning loyalty, defying authority, or adopting opposing beliefs and actions. Renegades often reject established norms, choosing instead to follow their own path, which may involve embracing a new ideology, joining an opposing faction, or simply operating independently. The term carries connotations of defiance, rebellion, and a willingness to break from the accepted order. Their actions can range from peaceful dissent to active opposition, depending on the context and the renegade's motivations. They are often viewed with suspicion or hostility by those they have abandoned, while others may see them as courageous individuals. Their motivations often involve a deep-seated dissatisfaction with the status quo.

Renegade meaning with examples

• The former spy, a renegade from his own agency, leaked classified documents revealing governmental corruption. Driven by his conscience, he became a thorn in the side of his former colleagues, constantly exposing their hidden dealings and secrets, risking everything to show the public the truth, even at the cost of his life.
• After years of loyal service, the soldier turned renegade when he witnessed the unjustified violence and cruelty inflicted upon the innocent civilians in a war zone. He deserted his post and defected to the enemy side, driven by a moral obligation to fight for the oppressed, risking his life by refusing to participate in the killing.
• The artist, a renegade from the traditional art world, began to create avant-garde pieces that were met with scorn and disbelief, challenging the established conventions of artistic expression. He explored new materials, styles, and themes, attracting a devoted following who embraced his iconoclastic approach to art and helped him find his place.
• The scientist, a renegade in her field, published her radical theories, challenging the accepted scientific dogma which created controversy within her field. Many peers were against her, as she questioned long held theories, her controversial perspective changed the scientific landscape and advanced knowledge, though it cost her her reputation.