delinquency
|de-lin-quen-cy|
B2
/dɪˈlɪŋkwənsi/
minor crime
Etymology
Etymology Information
'delinquency' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'delinquere,' where 'de-' meant 'away' and 'linquere' meant 'to leave.'
Historical Evolution
'delinquere' transformed into the French word 'délinquance,' and eventually became the modern English word 'delinquency' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to fail or be remiss,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'minor crime or misconduct.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
minor crime, especially that committed by young people.
The city is working to reduce juvenile delinquency.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35