failed

[feyld]

adjective

1. falling short of success or achievement in something expected, desired, etc..

   bad memories from a failed relationship; a failed attempt to save his daughter.

Word History and Origins

Origin of failed¹

First recorded in 1650–60; fail ( def. ) + -ed ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

The government lawyers said the labour unions had failed to establish that their members would be irreparably harmed by the layoffs, which is needed for the judge to grant the restraining order.

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At one August hearing, a man with a criminal record failed to appear.

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A spokeswoman said the utility did not tell the fire department that its equipment failed because it happened at a tower miles away from where the fire ignited.

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But the initiative has failed to gain unanimity, with others refusing to rally behind him.

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Athlos is hoping to find success where other fledgling track and field ventures have failed.

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Related Words

• abortive 
• disastrous 
• doomed 
• foiled 
• fruitless 
• futile 
• ill-fated 
• ineffective 
• ineffectual 
• losing 
• thwarted www.thesaurus.com
• useless 
• vain