1. failure

an act that fails

Example Sentences:
'his failure to pass the test'

2. failure

an event that does not accomplish its intended purpose

Example Sentences:
'the surprise party was a complete failure'

3. failure

lack of success

Example Sentences:
'he felt that his entire life had been a failure'
'that year there was a crop failure'

4. failure, loser, nonstarter, unsuccessful person

a person with a record of failing; someone who loses consistently

• loser
• nonstarter
• unsuccessful person

5. failure

an unexpected omission

Example Sentences:
'he resented my failure to return his call'
'the mechanic's failure to check the brakes'

6. bankruptcy, failure

inability to discharge all your debts as they come due

Example Sentences:
'the company had to declare bankruptcy'
'fraudulent loans led to the failure of many banks'

• bankruptcy

7. failure

loss of ability to function normally

Example Sentences:
'kidney failure'