Definition of failure
1a : omission of occurrence or performance specifically : a failing to perform a duty or expected action failure to pay the rent on time
b(1) : a state of inability to perform a normal function
kidney failure — compare heart failure
(2) : an abrupt cessation of normal functioning
a power failure
c : a fracturing or giving way under stress
structural failure
2a : lack of success
b : a failing in business : bankruptcy He was trying to rescue the company from failure.
3a : a falling short : deficiency a crop failure
b : deterioration, decay
4 : one that has failed He felt like a failure when he wasn't accepted into law school.
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Share failure
Time Traveler for failure
The first known use of failure was in 1643
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