debt
default
Failure to repay a debt or meet a financial obligation as agreed.
Example
"After missing three mortgage payments, they were at risk of default."
💡 Memory Tip
DE-fault — when you're at fault for not paying. The 'de' means you've fallen from your obligation.
Etymology
From Old French 'defaute' meaning 'failure, lack' — failing to do what was required.
Common Misspellings
defaltdefautdefualtdafault