default
Translation
default, non-payment
Examples
The default setting is 'on'.
The default setting is 'on'.
He is in default on his loan.
He is in default on his loan.
The team won by default.
The team won by default.
Grammar Patterns
by default as a standard or preselected option If you don't choose a color, it's green by default.
in default on sth. in failure to fulfil an obligation, especially to repay a loan He is in default on his mortgage payments.
Similar Words
Synonyms: (setting) standard, preset; (failure) nonpayment, delinquency
Etymology
From Old French 'defaute', meaning 'fault, defect, failure'. It comes from 'de-' (away) + 'faillir' (to fail).
Memory Tips
Think of it as 'de-fault' - what happens when there is a 'fault' or 'failure' to do something (like pay a loan) or choose something (so you get the standard setting).