defect
noun
a shortcoming, fault, or imperfection: a defect in a machine.
have been defecting
-
present perfect progressiveof defect.present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Some diners have been defecting to competitors like Chick-fil-A, which are known for heavily staffed, attentive service.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 11, 2026
These two generations have been defecting from the primary market.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 19, 2025
In the past two years, a steady stream of people, tired of the deprivations of life in jungle villages like Kdep Tmar, have been defecting from Khmer Rouge control.
From Time Magazine Archive
