Definition of: failure

(fāl′yər) noun
1. The act of failing, cessation of supply, power, etc.: failure of sight.
2. A becoming bankrupt or proving unsuccessful in business or in any profession or trade.
3. Neglect or non–performance.
4. That which fails; anything unsuccessful.
5. One who fails conspicuously or in some specific effort. See synonyms under LOSS, MISFORTUNE, NEGLECT. [Earlier failer <AF, orig. var. of OF faillir. See FAIL.]