default

Meanings

Noun

• The condition of failing to meet an obligation.
• the original software programming settings as set by the factory
• A loss incurred by failing to compete.
• A selection made in the absence of an alternative.
• A value used when none has been given; a tentative value or standard that is presumed.
• The failure of a defendant to appear and answer a summons and complaint.
• A failing or failure; omission of that which ought to be done; neglect to do what duty or law requires.
• Lack; absence.
• Fault; offence; wrong act.

Verb

• To fail to meet an obligation.
• To lose a competition by failing to compete.
• To assume a value when none was given; to presume a tentative value or standard.
• To fail to appear and answer a summons and complaint.

Origin

• From Middle English defaute, from Old French defaute ("fault, defect, failure, culpability, lack"), ultimately from Latin de- ("away") + fallo.