Langimage
English

failure

|fail/ure|

B1

🇺🇸

/ˈfeɪljər/

🇬🇧

/ˈfeɪljə/

lack of success

Etymology
Etymology Information

'failure' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'faillure,' where 'faillir' meant 'to fail.'

Historical Evolution

'faillure' transformed into the Middle English word 'failer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'failure.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to fail or be lacking,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'lack of success or malfunction.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the lack of success in achieving a goal or objective.

The project ended in failure.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

an instance of a machine or system not functioning as intended.

The engine failure caused the plane to crash.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35