noun
plural -faults
[noncount] - used to describe something that happens or is done when nothing else has been done or can be done; usually used in the phrase by default
a failure to make a payment (such as a payment on a loan) [noncount]
[noncount] law :failure to appear in court
[count] computers :a setting, option, etc., that a computer uses if you do not choose a different one
in default of
formal :in the absence of (something) :without (something)
verb
-faults; -faulted; -faulting
[no obj]
to fail to do something that legally must be done especially; :to fail to make the payments you must make on a loan, mortgage, etc.
of a computer :to automatically use a particular setting, option, etc., unless you choose a different one