perfidious
What does "perfidious" mean?
"Perfidious" describes someone who is deceitful, untrustworthy, and prone to betraying confidences. The mental image is of a person who smiles to your face while secretly sharpening a knife behind their back, suggesting a calculated and intentional breach of faith. It is a formal, literary term that carries a weightier moral judgment than simply calling someone a "liar." You will most often encounter it in historical accounts, political commentary, or dramatic literature when describing someone who has violated a solemn oath or a deep personal alliance.
"perfidious" in conversation
Discussing a historical traitor
The general's perfidious actions cost the entire battalion their lives.
The general's perfidious actions cost the entire battalion their lives.
I agree; it wasn't just a mistake, it was a deliberate betrayal.
I agree; it wasn't just a mistake, it was a deliberate betrayal.
Used to describe a grave, calculated betrayal.
Analyzing a novel
The protagonist finally realizes her partner is perfidious.
The protagonist finally realizes her partner is perfidious.
That explains why he was stealing secrets from the start.
That explains why he was stealing secrets from the start.
Highlights the element of hidden deceit.
"perfidious" in a sentence
He was known for his perfidious nature.
He was known for his perfidious nature.
The treaty was broken by the perfidious actions of the invading army.
The treaty was broken by the perfidious actions of the invading army.
She felt foolish for trusting such a perfidious man with her most private secrets.
She felt foolish for trusting such a perfidious man with her most private secrets.
