default

[dɪˈfɔːlt]

default Definition

• 1. a failure to fulfill an obligation, especially to repay a loan or appear in a court of law
• 2. an option that is selected automatically unless an alternative is specified

Using default: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "default" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  He was sued for defaulting on his loan.

• Example

  The default setting for the printer is double-sided printing.

• Example

  If you don't make a selection, the computer will choose the default option.

• Example

  The company's default policy is to offer a refund within 30 days.

default Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for default

• failure
• neglect
• nonpayment
• delinquency
• omission

Antonyms for default

• fulfillment
• compliance
• achievement

Phrases with default

• in default of

  in the absence of

  Example

  In default of a better solution, we'll have to use this one.

• by default

  as a result of not making a choice or taking action

  Example

  She became team captain by default when the previous captain resigned.

• default position

  a position or attitude that is taken automatically in the absence of a conscious decision or a compelling reason to adopt another

  Example

  His default position is to be skeptical of new ideas.

Origins of default

from Old French 'defaute', meaning 'failure, fault'

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Summary: default in Brief

The term 'default' [dɪˈfɔːlt] refers to a failure to fulfill an obligation, such as repaying a loan or appearing in court. It also denotes an option that is automatically selected if no alternative is specified, as in 'The default setting for the printer is double-sided printing.' Phrases like 'in default of' and 'by default' are used to indicate absence of something or automatic outcomes.