The meaning of DEFECTIVE is having a defect or flaw : imperfect in form, structure, or function. How to use defective in a sentence.

DEFECTIVE definition: 1. Something that is defective has a fault in it and does not work correctly: 2. Something that is…. Learn more.

DEFECTIVE definition: Sometimes defected having a defect or flaw; faulty; imperfect. See examples of defective used in a sentence.

Define defective. defective synonyms, defective pronunciation, defective translation, English dictionary definition of defective. adj. 1. Having or showing a defect; faulty: a defective appliance.

Definition of defective adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

There are 11 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word defective, two of which are labelled obsolete, and two of which are considered offensive. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation …

Defective refers to something that is flawed, malfunctioning, imperfect, or not functioning as intended, often due to manufacturing errors or other issues. This term can apply to a wide range of items, from …

Dec 11, 2025 · defective (plural defectives) A person or thing considered to be defective. quotations

Something that's defective doesn't work quite right, because it's damaged in some way. Your defective car probably won't make it all the way to California from New York. Defective things are broken or …

not working properly or effectively: One of the tires was defective. See -fec-. imperfect: a defective machine. Psychology characterized by subnormal intelligence or behavior.