default
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪˈfɔlt/
KK: /dɪˈfɔlt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To fail to fulfill an obligation or requirement, such as not appearing in court or not making a payment.
Example
He defaulted on his loan payments, which affected his credit score.
Tense Forms
Past: defaulted
Past Participle: defaulted
Conversation
Did you hear about Jake? He might default on his loan.
Really? I thought he was managing his finances well.
Yeah, but he missed a few payments and now he's worried.
That's tough; I hope he figures it out before it gets worse.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fail
omit
neglect
Antonyms
attend
participate
fulfill
noun
Definition
A situation or condition that happens automatically when no other choice is made, or a failure to meet an obligation, especially in finance.
Example
The software will use the default settings unless you change them.
Conversation
Did you know we won the match by default because the other team didn't show up?
Really? That's kind of surprising!
Yeah, I guess they were not ready at all.
transitive verb
Definition
To fail to fulfill a duty or obligation, such as not appearing in court or not making a payment.
Example
If you default on your loan, the bank may take legal action against you.
Tense Forms
Past: defaulted
Past Participle: defaulted
Conversation
Did you hear about Tom? He might default on his loan if he doesn't pay this month.
Oh no, that's really worrying! I hope he can manage it.
Yeah, I can’t believe he let it get this far without addressing it.
Root Explanation
Default → It originates from the Old French word 'defaulte' (meaning failure or lack) and the Latin 'defectus' (meaning a failing or deficiency). The word 'default' refers to a failure to fulfill an obligation or a lack of action in a given situation.
Memory Tip
Think of a situation where something is 'lacking' or 'failing' — that's what default means, as it comes from the idea of not meeting an obligation.
Visually Confused Words
redefault
fault
dealt
prodefault
predefault