defect
Defect (noun) means a flaw, fault, or imperfection in something. Example: “The car was recalled because of a defect in the brakes.”
How to use defect
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAs a noun, a flaw; as a verb, to switch sides or abandon your country/cause.
Word forms
defected past tense, defects plural, defects singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The car was recalled because of a _____ in the brakes.
Etymology
From Latin defectus ("a failure, lack"), from deficere ("to fail, undo"), formed from de- + facere ("to do").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for defect
See all rhymes for defect →Frequently asked questions
What does “defect” mean?
The word “defect” means a flaw, fault, or imperfection in something. In plain terms, as a noun, a flaw; as a verb, to switch sides or abandon your country/cause.
How do you pronounce “defect”?
“Defect” is pronounced DEE-fehkt (/ˈdiːfɛkt/ in IPA).
How do you use “defect” in a sentence?
Here is “defect” used in a sentence: “The car was recalled because of a defect in the brakes.”
What is another word for “defect”?
Words with a similar meaning to “defect” include fault, flaw, imperfection, shortcoming, drawback and deficiency.
What part of speech is “defect”?
Depending on how it is used, “defect” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “defect” come from?
The word “defect” comes from Latin. From Latin defectus ("a failure, lack"), from deficere ("to fail, undo"), formed from de- + facere ("to do").
Is “defect” a common word?
“Defect” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “defect” have?
“Defect” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a flaw, fault, or imperfection in something.
What is the difference between a defect and a bug in software?
In software, a defect and a bug are often used interchangeably to mean a flaw or fault in the code. Defect is the more formal, general term, while bug is the informal, more commonly spoken word for the same kind of imperfection.
What does it mean when someone defects?
To defect means to abandon one's country, party, or cause, typically in order to join an opposing one. It's most often used in political or military contexts, such as a soldier or official defecting to another nation.
Is defect always a negative word?
As a noun, defect is generally negative, describing a flaw or imperfection that shouldn't be there. As a verb, it's more neutral in tone but still implies a significant, often controversial, break of loyalty.