'In default of' definitions:

Definition of 'In default of'

From: GCIDE
  • Default \De*fault"\, n. [OE. defaute, OF. defaute, defalte, fem., F. d['e]faut, masc., LL. defalta, fr. a verb meaning, to be deficient, to want, fail, fr. L. de- + fallere to deceive. See Fault.]
  • 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. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. Fault; offense; ill deed; wrong act; failure in virtue or wisdom. [1913 Webster]
  • And pardon craved for his so rash default. --Spenser. [1913 Webster]
  • Regardless of our merit or default. --Pope. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. (Law) 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. [1913 Webster]
  • In default of, in case of failure or lack of. [1913 Webster]
  • Cooks could make artificial birds and fishes in default of the real ones. --Arbuthnot.
  • To suffer a default (Law), to permit an action to be called without appearing to answer. [1913 Webster]