failing

[fey-ling]

noun

1. an act or instance of failing; failure.

   His failing is due to general incompetence.

2. a defect or fault; shortcoming; weakness.

   His lack of knowledge is a grave failing.

preposition

1. in the absence or default of.

   Failing payment, we shall sue.

failing

/ ˈfeɪlɪŋ /

noun

1. a weak point; flaw

preposition

1. (used to express a condition) in default of

   failing a solution this afternoon, the problem will have to wait until Monday

Other Word Forms

• failingly adverb
• failingness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of failing¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English; fail, -ing ¹

Synonym Study

See fault.

Example Sentences

Prosecutors in Brest have opened an investigation on two counts: refusing an order to stop and failing to justify the nationality of the ship's flag.

From BBC

Whistleblowers told Panorama that officers with racist and misogynistic attitudes still worked at the station despite the Met's promise to root out "rogue officers" and "cultural failings".

From BBC

The 35-year-old pleaded guilty in December 2025 to charges of robbery, dangerous driving, failing to provide a specimen of blood for analysis, driving without a licence and without insurance.

From BBC

Social services and police have previously apologised for their past failings regarding the girls.

From BBC

Attorney Brian Claypool, who represented Cuatro’s family in the lawsuit, said Noah’s death was a direct result of the county failing to follow the court order to remove him from his parents.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• defect 
• deficiency 
• drawback 
• error 
• failure 
• fault 
• flaw 
• foible 
• frailty 
• imperfection 
• weakness