flaw

flaw · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A mark, blemish, or imperfection that mars something.

  2. 2.

    A weakness in someone's character.

  3. 3.

    A mistake or weakness in an argument, plan, or system.

Forms

plural: flaws

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    fatal flaw — a critical weakness that leads to failure
  • •
    design flaw — a mistake in how something was designed
  • •
    character flaw — a weakness in personality

Related words

Antonyms: perfection, strength
See also: defect, flawless, flaws, imperfection
Synonyms: blemish, defect, fault, imperfection

Etymology

From Old Norse flaga ("slab, flake"), related to the idea of a crack or chip. May also be influenced by Middle Dutch vlage ("crack").