flaw

²flaw

noun

Definition of FLAW

1

a : a defect in physical structure or form <a diamond with a flaw> b : an imperfection or weakness and especially one that detracts from the whole or hinders effectiveness <vanity was the flaw in his character> <a flaw in the book's plot>

2

obsolete : fragment

— flawed \ˈflȯd\ adjective

— flaw·less \-ləs\ adjective

— flaw·less·ly adverb

— flaw·less·ness noun

Origin of FLAW

Middle English, flake, from Old Norse flaga stone slab, moldarflaga thin layer of turf; akin to Old English flōh flat stone

First Known Use: 1586