default Definition

default
verb, intr

1. To fail to do what one should do, especially to fail to pay what is due.

Form: default on something (usually)
2. law.
To fail to appear in court when called upon.

noun

1. A failure to do or pay what one should.

Thesaurus: failure, neglect, omission, absence, non-payment, dereliction, lapse.
2. computing.
A preset option which will always be followed unless the operator enters a command to the contrary.

Derivative: defaulter
noun

A person who defaults, especially in paying a debt.

Idiom: by default

Because of someone's failure to do something which would have prevented or altered the situation.

Idiom: in default of something

In the absence of it ; for lack of it.

Etymology: 16c in this form; 13c as defaut: from French defaillir to fail.