noun / adjective / verb
default
dih-FAWLT/dɪˈfɔːlt/
An option used automatically when no other choice is made.
The washing machine's dial rests at its default setting before anyone adjusts it.
Etymology
The combination of 'away' and a verb meaning 'fail' or 'be lacking' led to a noun meaning 'failure to act.' A preset default applies when the user makes no active choice.
In context
Marriage is no longer what you do as a default. It's now one option among many.
More examples
- You can change the default in the settings menu.
- The default font is easy to read.
- The app defaults to English until you select another language.
Forms
default · defaults · defaulted · defaulting
Similar words
- preset
- An option configured beforehand, not necessarily selected automatically.
- fallback
- An alternative used when a preferred option fails or is unavailable.