fault, failing, frailty, foible, vice mean an imperfection or weakness of character. fault implies a failure, not necessarily culpable, to reach some standard of perfection in disposition, action, or habit.

FAILING definition: an act or instance of failing; failure. See examples of failing used in a sentence.

failing preposition (WITHOUT) used to show what will happen if something is not possible or available:

1. an act or instance of failing; failure. 2. a defect or fault; shortcoming; weakness. prep. 3. in the absence or default of: Failing payment, we shall sue.

fail•ing /ˈfeɪlɪŋ/ n. [countable] an act or instance of failing; failure. a defect or fault; shortcoming; weakness. prep. in the absence or default of: Failing payment, we shall sue.

Definition of failing noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

failing definition: not meeting a required standard or expectation. Check meanings, examples, usage tips, pronunciation, domains, and related words. Discover expressions like "someone's strength is …

Jan 18, 2026 · A large proportion of the females employed in other firms are said to have signified their intention of going on strike, failing a settlement.

failing meaning, definition, what is failing: a fault or weakness: Learn more.

"Failing" describes an ongoing process of not succeeding, while "failed" describes something that has already not succeeded. For example, "The project is failing" means it's currently not going well, while …