¹failing

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noun fail·ing \ˈfā-liŋ\

: a weakness or problem in a person's character, behavior, or ability

Full Definition of FAILING

:  a usually slight or insignificant defect in character, conduct, or ability

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Examples of FAILING

1. He has some minor failings.
2. <we could talk about your failings, but it would take all night>

First Known Use of FAILING

1590

Related to FAILING

Synonyms

demerit, dereliction, fault, foible, frailty, shortcoming, sin, vice, want, weakness

Antonyms

merit, virtue

Related Words

blot, spot, stain; blemish, deficiency, flaw, imperfection, minus, nit; Achilles' heel, soft spot; corruption, depravity, evil, immorality, sinfulness, wickedness

Near Antonyms

excellence, perfection; goodness, integrity, morality, probity, rectitude, righteousness

See Synonym Discussion at fault

Rhymes with FAILING

grayling, mailing, paling, railing, sailing, tailing, veiling, whaling

²failing

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preposition

: in the absence of (something)

Full Definition of FAILING

:  in absence or default of <failing specific instructions, use your own judgment>

Examples of FAILING

1. Failing progress in the peace process, war seems likely.

First Known Use of FAILING

1810