failure

The definition of a failure is the act of falling short of the goal or a person who hasn't achieved what they set out to.

(noun)

An example of a failure is an aspiring actress hoping to make it in the movie industry and ending up with a waitressing career.

See failure in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

the act of failing or the state or condition resulting from having failed; specif.,
1. a falling short
2. a losing of power or strength
3. a breakdown in operation or function
4. neglect or omission
5. a not succeeding in doing or becoming
6. a becoming bankrupt
a person or thing that fails
Educ.
1. a failing to pass
2. ☆ a grade or mark (usually F) indicating a failing to pass

Origin: < earlier failer < Anglo-Fr < OFr faillir: see fail

See failure in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

The condition or fact of not achieving the desired end or ends: the failure of an experiment.
One that fails: a failure at one's career.
The condition or fact of being insufficient or falling short: a crop failure.
A cessation of proper functioning or performance: a power failure.
Nonperformance of what is requested or expected; omission: failure to report a change of address.
The act or fact of failing to pass a course, test, or assignment.
A decline in strength or effectiveness.
The act or fact of becoming bankrupt or insolvent.

Origin:

Origin: Alteration of failer, default

Origin: , from Anglo-Norman

Origin: , from Old French faillir, to fail; see fail

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