Flaws Meaning and Definition
Flaws
Pronunciation
/flɔz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A physical imperfection or defect in the natural appearance of a person, thing, or structure, often resulting in an irregular or uneven shape or surface.
Examples
- The sculptor worked to remove the flaws in the stone statue.
- The engineer analyzed the flaws in the bridge’s design.
Synonyms
- Irregularity
- Defect
- Unsightliness
Antonyms
- Purity
- Perfection
- Beauty
Etymology
The word “Flaws” comes from Old English “flæw” meaning “blemish” or “spot”, related to the Proto-Germanic word *flēwiz, and possibly derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *plew- meaning “to bend” or “to warp”.
Usage Notes
When describing physical imperfections, “Flaws” is often used interchangeably with “blemishes”, “defects”, or “irregularities”. However, “Flaws” typically carries a more nuanced connotation of imperfection or departure from a desired standard.
Cultural References
The term “Flaws” is often referenced in popular culture, such as in song lyrics or movie dialogue, to describe physical imperfections or flaws in a character’s appearance.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“There’s no such thing as a perfect person” or “Flaws are what make us human” are common phrases that acknowledge the inevitability of imperfections in people.
Related Words or Phrases
- Defect
- Irregularity
- Imperfection
- blemish
Collocations
- a flaw in the system
- a flaw in the design
- a flaw in the argument
Frequency of Use
“Flaws” is a relatively common word in modern language, often used in contexts such as art, engineering, or social commentary.
Common Misspellings
- Flews
- Flaws
- Flaurs