[ fɔ:lt , fɒlt ]
■ noun
1》 an unattractive or unsatisfactory feature; a defect or mistake.
↘(in tennis and similar games) a service of the ball not in accordance with the rules.
2》 responsibility for an accident or misfortune.
3》 Geology an extended break in a rock formation, marked by the relative displacement and discontinuity of strata.
■ verb
1》 criticize for inadequacy or mistakes.
↘ archaic do wrong.
2》 ( be ~ed ) Geology be broken by a ~ or ~s.
Phrases
at ~
1》 in the wrong.
2》 defective.
find ~ make a criticism or objection, sometimes unfairly.
—— to a ~ displaying the specified commendable quality to an almost excessive extent: he was generous to a ~.
Derivatives
~less adjective
~lessly adverb
~lessness noun
Origin
ME faut(e) 'lack, failing', from OFr., based on L. fallere 'deceive'; -l- added to conform with L.