defaults

noun

(electronics, computing) the original software programming settings as set by the factory

(often attributive) A value used when none has been given; a tentative value or standard that is presumed.

A selection made in the absence of an alternative.

(finance) The condition of failing to meet an obligation.

(finance) The condition of being an obligation that has not been met.

(law) The failure of a defendant to appear and answer a summons and complaint.

A loss incurred by failing to compete.

(obsolete) A failing or failure; omission of that which ought to be done; neglect to do what duty or law requires.

(obsolete) Lack; absence.

(obsolete) Fault; offence; wrong act.

verb

(intransitive, finance) To fail to fulfill a financial obligation.

(intransitive) To fail to meet an obligation.

(intransitive) To lose a competition by failing to compete.

(intransitive, law) To fail to appear and answer a summons and complaint.

(ambitransitive, computing) To assume a value when none was given; to presume a tentative value or standard.

Roots

fallofault- · Latin · deceive

Synonyms & related words for defaults

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Words related to defaults

Explore words related to defaults — words associated with it, words that go with it, and its nearest matches in meaning. Related words include nonpayment, defaulting, defaulted, mortgagor, defaulter, mortgagee, borrower, subprime. Click any word to make it the center of the map and keep exploring the web of connections.

Where does defaults come from?

The word defaults breaks down into one root of Latin origin: the root fault-, from Latin fallo (“deceive”). Explore each root to see other English words built from the same source.