1. Dangerous and deceptive: This is the most common meaning. It refers to something that is unpredictable and likely to cause harm or danger. This can apply to:
* Terrain: A treacherous mountain path might be slippery, steep, or have hidden dangers.
* Weather: A treacherous storm could be unexpected and violent.
* People: A treacherous friend might betray your trust.
* Situations: A treacherous political climate could be unstable and unpredictable.
2. Betraying trust: This meaning focuses on breaking a promise or loyalty. It describes someone who is unreliable and cannot be trusted.
Examples:
* "The ice on the lake was treacherous, and several people fell through." (dangerous and deceptive)
* "The politician's promises turned out to be treacherous, as he betrayed his constituents." (betraying trust)
It's important to understand the context of the word to determine which meaning is intended.