What does FAULT mean?

Parts of Speech

Noun, verb

Definitions

Noun: a mistake or error; responsibility for a mistake or error

Verb: to blame or criticize someone for a mistake or error

Pronunciations

US: /fɔlt/

UK: /fɔːlt/

Origin and Usage

The word "fault" originated from the Old French word "faute" which means "lack, deficiency, or mistake". It has been in use since the 13th century. As a noun, "fault" refers to a mistake or error, and as a verb, it means to blame or criticize someone for a mistake or error. The word is commonly used in legal contexts, such as when assigning responsibility for an accident or mistake.

Synonyms

Noun: mistake, error, flaw, defect, shortcoming

Verb: blame, criticize, condemn, censure, reproach

Related Words

blame, error, guilt, shame

Example Sentences

Noun: The fault in the machine caused it to malfunction. He accepted full fault for the accident.

Verb: The boss faulted the employee for the mistake in the report. She faulted herself for not preparing enough for the exam.