Default

/dɪˈfɔːlt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A standard or preselected option that is automatically used in the absence of a specific choice.

The default setting on the device is to turn off after five minutes of inactivity.

The failure to fulfill a financial obligation, such as failing to repay a loan.

After several missed payments, the company declared that they were in default on their loan.

verb

To fail to fulfill an obligation, particularly a financial one.

If you default on your mortgage, the bank may initiate foreclosure proceedings.

To revert to a standard option when no choice is made.

If you do not select a payment method, the system will default to using your last used credit card.

Middle English, from Old French 'defaut', from 'de-' (from) + 'fault' (failure)

Default setting:

The established configuration provided by the manufacturer.

Default judgment:

A judgment rendered because one party did not respond.

Default mode:

The standard operating state of a system.

To fail to make a choice in a situation requiring a decision.

I just defaulted to the easy option when making my plans.

To miss an opportunity or deadline.

If you don't submit your application by Friday, you’ll default and lose your chance.