Default /(?)/

1. A failing or failure; omission of that which ought to be done; neglect to do what duty or law requires; as, this evil has happened through the governor's default.
2. Fault; offense; ill deed; wrong act; failure in virtue or wisdom.

   And pardon craved for his so rash default.

   Regardless of our merit or default.

3. A neglect of, or failure to take, some step necessary to secure the benefit of law, as a failure to appear in court at a day assigned, especially of the defendant in a suit when called to make answer; also of jurors, witnesses, etc. (Law)

   Cooks could make artificial birds and fishes in default of the real ones.

imp. & p. p. Defaulted; p. pr. & vb. n. Defaulting

1. To fail in duty; to offend.

   That he gainst courtesy so foully did default.

2. To fail in fulfilling a contract, agreement, or duty.
3. To fail to appear in court; to let a case go by default.

1. To fail to perform or pay; to be guilty of neglect of; to omit; as, to default a dividend.

   What they have defaulted towards him as no king.

2. To call a defendant or other party whose duty it is to be present in court, and make entry of his default, if he fails to appear; to enter a default against. (Law)
3. To leave out of account; to omit. [Obs.]

   Defaulting unnecessary and partial discourses.