Английский Этимологический словарь - treason

- 12c., from Anglo-Fr. treson, from O.Fr. traison (influenced by the verb trair "betray"), from L. traditionem (nom. traditio) "a handing over, delivery, surrender" (see tradition). High treason is violation by a subject of his allegiance to his sovereign or to the state; distinguished from petit treason, treason against a subject, such as murder of a master by his servant.