noun
fault
A defect that makes something fall short of proper operation or standards.
A fault in the wiring keeps the lights from working.
Etymology
The source word meant a lack or failing. A fault is something missing or defective that prevents a thing from meeting its expected standard.
More examples
- The inspector finds several faults in the building's design.
- Impatience is one of her few faults.
- In tennis, a serve that lands outside the service box is a fault.
Forms
fault · faults
faulty adjective — Having defects or failing to work properly.
faultless adjective — Free from defects, errors, or imperfections.