1. (noun)defect an imperfection in a bodily system "visual defects"; "this device permits detection of defects in the lungs"
2. (noun)defect, shortcoming a failing or deficiency "that interpretation is an unfortunate defect of our lack of information"
3. (noun)defect, fault, flaw an imperfection in an object or machine "a flaw caused the crystal to shatter"; "if there are any defects you should send it back to the manufacturer"
4. (noun)blemish, defect, mar a mark or flaw that spoils the appearance of something (especially on a person's body) "a facial blemish"
5. (verb)defect, desert desert (a cause, a country or an army), often in order to join the opposing cause, country, or army "If soldiers deserted Hitler's army, they were shot"