defect
defect Lexical Profile
defect Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A shortcoming, imperfection, or lack of something necessary for completeness or proper functioning.
"The automaker recalled thousands of vehicles after engineers discovered a structural defect in the steering column."
• verb
To abandon one's country, political party, or cause in favor of an opposing one.
"Several prominent diplomats chose to defect and seek political asylum abroad during the regime change."
Word Nuance & Usage
'Defect' is a heteronym: as a noun meaning 'flaw', stress normally falls on the first syllable (DEE-fect), whereas as a verb meaning 'abandon allegiance', stress always falls on the second syllable (dih-FEKT).
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the 15th century from Latin 'defectus' (failure, revolt, or want), from the past participle of 'deficere' (to desert, fail, or be wanting), composed of 'de-' (away from) and 'facere' (to do or make).