no-fault

American

[noh-fawlt] / ˈnoʊˌfɔlt /

noun

Also called no-fault insurance. a form of automobile insurance designed to enable the policyholder in case of an accident to collect a certain basic compensation promptly for economic loss from their own insurance company without determination of liability.

adjective

of, relating to, or requiring no-fault insurance.

a no-fault law; no-fault coverage.
of, relating to, or designating a divorce in which there is no attempt or need to hold either party responsible for the breakup.

Etymology

Origin of no-fault

An Americanism dating back to 1965–70

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Also, Utah is a no-fault state when it comes to divorce.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026

The no-fault system has also been an invitation for fraud.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 16, 2026

This no-fault system ensures individuals are compensated by the government in a timely manner for vaccine injuries, though it also makes it harder to pursue class actions.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 6, 2026

Kassie was served with a "no-fault eviction" by her previous private sector landlord and she can't afford to pay for new carpets herself for her new property.

From BBC • Sep. 30, 2025

First, they have to go through the no-fault system.

From Salon • Jul. 17, 2025

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023