failing

1 of 2

noun

fail·​ing ˈfā-liŋ How to pronounce failing (audio)
: a usually slight or insignificant defect in character, conduct, or ability

failing

2 of 2

preposition

: in absence or default of
failing specific instructions, use your own judgment
Choose the Right Synonym for failing

fault, failing, frailty, foible, vice mean an imperfection or weakness of character.

fault implies a failure, not necessarily culpable, to reach some standard of perfection in disposition, action, or habit.

a writer of many virtues and few faults

failing suggests a minor shortcoming in character.

being late is a failing of mine

frailty implies a general or chronic proneness to yield to temptation.

human frailties

foible applies to a harmless or endearing weakness or idiosyncrasy.

an eccentric's charming foibles

vice can be a general term for any imperfection or weakness, but it often suggests violation of a moral code or the giving of offense to the moral sensibilities of others.

compulsive gambling was his vice

Examples of failing in a Sentence

Noun He has some minor failings. we could talk about your failings, but it would take all night Preposition Failing progress in the peace process, war seems likely.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
But beneath that was a second failing: the Bears ranked 25th in PFF run-blocking grade from 11 personnel. Phil Rogers, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025 Peter Johnston, the BBC’s director of editorial complaints and reviews, is examining the failings that led to the film being broadcast. Jake Kanter, Deadline, 20 June 2025 Despite the immeasurable impact of Juneteenth, many people don't begin celebrating it until later on in life, which often reflects a failing of American education and the rejection of critical race theory. Danielle Broadway, Parents, 18 June 2025 One of the lessons from the failings across 2021-22 and 2022-23 is the lack of Premier League experience Leeds were bringing into the squad. Beren Cross, New York Times, 29 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for failing

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1590, in the meaning defined above

Preposition

1810, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of failing was in 1590

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Failing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/failing. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

failing

1 of 2 noun
fail·​ing ˈfā-liŋ How to pronounce failing (audio)

failing

2 of 2 preposition
: in the absence or lack of
failing specific instructions, use your own judgment

More from Merriam-Webster on failing

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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