Defect: meaning, definitions and examples

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defect

 

[ ˈdiːfekt ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

in manufacturing

A flaw or imperfection that impairs worth or utility; a shortcoming or weakness.

Synonyms

flaw, imperfection, weakness

Examples of usage

  • There was a defect in the product that caused it to malfunction.
  • The defect in the car's engine was a major safety concern.
Context #2 | Noun

in legal terms

A lack of something necessary for completeness; a deficiency.

Synonyms

deficiency, flaw, shortcoming

Examples of usage

  • The contract was terminated due to a defect in the agreement.
  • The defect in the evidence led to the case being dismissed.
Context #3 | Verb

in manufacturing

To abandon or renounce allegiance, duty, etc.; to desert; to quit.

Synonyms

abandon, betray, desert

Examples of usage

  • He defected from his company to join a competitor.
  • The soldier defected to the enemy's side.

Translations

Translations of the word "defect" in other languages:

🇵🇹 defeito

🇮🇳 त्रुटि

🇩🇪 Fehler

🇮🇩 cacat

🇺🇦 дефект

🇵🇱 defekt

🇯🇵 欠陥 (けっかん)

🇫🇷 défaut

🇪🇸 defecto

🇹🇷 kusur

🇰🇷 결함 (gyeolham)

🇸🇦 خلل

🇨🇿 vada

🇸🇰 vada

🇨🇳 缺陷 (quēxiàn)

🇸🇮 napaka

🇮🇸 galli

🇰🇿 ақау

🇬🇪 ხარვეზი

🇦🇿 qüsur

🇲🇽 defecto

Etymology

The word 'defect' originated in the late 15th century from the Latin word 'defectus', which means 'failure' or 'failing'. Over the centuries, the word has evolved to encompass various meanings related to flaws, imperfections, and deficiencies. In manufacturing, a defect refers to a flaw that impairs the worth or utility of a product, while in legal terms, it signifies a lack of something necessary for completeness. The verb form of 'defect' is used to describe the act of abandoning allegiance or duty, such as when a person deserts their post or quits a position.

See also: defecting, defection, defective, defector, defects.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,103, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.