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.

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 from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. having a fault or faults; not perfect or complete synonym faulty. If the goods are defective you should get a full refund.

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 …

Feb 21, 2026 · Adjective defective (comparative more defective, superlative most defective) Having one or more defects. Synonym: faulty Antonyms: complete, perfect, undefective

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

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 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 …

Our car had defective [= faulty] brakes, so we had them replaced. This computer is defective. I want my money back. The disease is caused by a defective gene.