delinquent
|de-lin-quent|
/dɪˈlɪŋkwənt/
neglectful or guilty
Etymology
'delinquent' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'delinquere,' where 'de-' meant 'away' and 'linquere' meant 'to leave.'
'delinquere' transformed into the French word 'délinquant,' and eventually became the modern English word 'delinquent' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'to fail or be lacking,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'neglectful or guilty of a misdeed.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person, especially a young person, who regularly performs illegal or immoral acts.
The teenager was labeled a delinquent after several run-ins with the law.
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Adjective 1
failing in or neglectful of a duty or obligation; guilty of a misdeed or offense.
The company was delinquent in paying its taxes.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39