definition of
demerit

[1] #1 demerit n. a mark against a person for misconduct or failure; usually given in school or armed forces; "ten demerits and he loses his privileges". wn

[2] #2 demerit n. [fault] the quality of being inadequate or falling short of perfection; "they discussed the merits and demerits of her novel"; "he knew his own faults much better than she did". wn