to leave (a person, place, etc.) without intending to return, esp. in violation of a duty, promise, or the like

He deserted his wife.

(of military personnel) to leave or run away from (service, duty, etc.) with the intention of never returning.

to fail (someone) at a time of need

None of his friends had deserted him.

to forsake or leave one's duty, obligations, etc. (sometimes fol. by from, to, etc.)

Many deserted during the food shortage.

(of military personnel) to leave service, duty, etc., with no intention of returning

Troops were deserting to the enemy.

noun

absconder , apostate , awol , backslider , betrayer , criminal , defector , delinquent , derelict , escapee , escaper , hookey player , lawbreaker , maroon , no-show , recreant , refugee , renegade , runaway , shirker , slacker , traitor , truant , runagate , tergiversator , turncoat , bolter , fugitive , poltroon , rat