The word "unfailing" is spelled with the letter "a" in the suffix instead of "i", despite the presence of the "i" sound in the word. This is due to the spelling rule that when the suffix "-ing" is added to a word that ends with a vowel sound, the letter "i" is changed to the letter "a" to maintain the correct pronunciation. The phonetic transcription of "unfailing" is /ʌnˈfeɪlɪŋ/ with the stress on the second syllable.
Unfailing is an adjective that describes something that consistently performs or happens without fail or disappointment. It suggests a quality of reliability, consistency, and dependability in the context of an action, behavior, or occurrence. When something is deemed unfailing, it implies that it can be trusted, relied upon, or counted on to always produce the desired or expected outcome.
The term is often used to describe people, objects, or processes that consistently exhibit unwavering characteristics or behaviors. For example, an unfailing friend is one who is always there to provide support and companionship, regardless of circumstances. Similarly, an unfailing machine is one that functions flawlessly and without interruption, even under challenging conditions.
Unfailing can also refer to a state or quality that endures and remains unchanged over time. It suggests a steadfastness and consistency that withstands the test of time. For instance, unfailing love refers to a deep and unwavering affection that remains constant and enduring throughout the ups and downs of a relationship.
Overall, unfailing speaks to the sense of trust, reliability, and consistency associated with a person, object, or characteristic. It conveys the idea that something is constant, dependable, and resistant to failure, making it a prime candidate for reliance and confidence.
Not liable to fail; not capable of being exhausted; certain.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "unfailing" has its roots in the combination of two words - "un" and "failing".
The prefix "un-" is derived from Old English and is commonly used in English to create negation or opposite meanings. Here, "un-" indicates the absence of or reversal of the quality described by the base word.
The word "failing" is related to the verb "fail" and likely originates from Old French or Latin. "Fail" originally meant to be unsuccessful or not meet expectations. Over time, it took on the broader sense of lacking or falling short in various aspects.
Combining "un-" and "failing" gives us "unfailing", which means not subject to failure or never falling short. It implies reliability, constancy, or consistency in a positive sense.