: a usually slight or insignificant defect in character, conduct, or ability
: in absence or default of
failing specific instructions, use your own judgment
Synonyms
Examples of failing in a Sentence
Noun
He has some minor failings.
we could talk about your failings, but it would take all night
Preposition
Failing progress in the peace process, war seems likely.
Recent Examples on the Web
Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 1 Nov. 2024
Brazilian winger Antony, a favorite of Ten Hag’s from his time in charge of Dutch giants Ajax, exemplified the coach's transfer market failings.
—Freddie Clayton, NBC News, 28 Oct. 2024
Is that a failing, or is that actually calming and equating to a new stage in his life?
—Leo Barraclough, Variety, 21 Oct. 2024
Remedies and Support Recognizing that male infertility is a medical condition, not a personal failing, is the first step toward overcoming the stigma.
—Priya Oberoi, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for failing 
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Noun
Chinese media portray the chaos of the candidates and the campaign cycle as a symbol of the failings of American democracy.
—Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 1 Nov. 2024
Brazilian winger Antony, a favorite of Ten Hag’s from his time in charge of Dutch giants Ajax, exemplified the coach's transfer market failings.
—Freddie Clayton, NBC News, 28 Oct. 2024
Is that a failing, or is that actually calming and equating to a new stage in his life?
—Leo Barraclough, Variety, 21 Oct. 2024
Remedies and Support Recognizing that male infertility is a medical condition, not a personal failing, is the first step toward overcoming the stigma.
—Priya Oberoi, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for failing
Dictionary Entries Near failing
Cite this Entry
“Failing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/failing. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
failing
1 of 2 noun
fail·ing
ˈfā-liŋ 
failing
2 of 2 preposition
: in the absence or lack of
failing specific instructions, use your own judgment
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