faulty

adjective

ˈfȯl-tē 

faultier; faultiest

: marked by fault or defect : imperfect

faultily

ˈfȯl-tə-lē 

adverb

faultiness

ˈfȯl-tē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of faulty

• defective

Examples of faulty in a Sentence

the cause of the plane crash was traced to faulty wiring

Recent Examples on the Web

The contractor two days later reported that faulty components had been repaired, but testing by Eversource resulted in further failures, and the building has remained dark since then. — Don Stacom, Hartford Courant, 24 Sep. 2026

The decision stems from concerns about faulty or counterfeit parts that could put people’s lives at risk. — Jerry Perez, The Drive, 24 Sep. 2026

Customers across South Korea found that their almost $4,000 appliance suddenly shut down after a faulty firmware update, turning them into an expensive — and fresh food ruining — brick. — Victor Tangermann, Futurism, 23 Sep. 2026

Change Out the Showerhead Swapping out a faulty showerhead is another relatively easy and inexpensive bathroom upgrade. — Michelle Mastro, The Spruce, 20 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for faulty

• salty

Kids Definition

faulty

adjective

ˈfȯl-tē 

faultier; faultiest

: having a fault or weakness : imperfect

faultily

-tə-lē 

adverb

faultiness

-tē-nəs 

noun