First Known Use: 1649
Dictionary
1derelict
adjective der·e·lict \ˈder-ə-ˌlikt, ˈde-rə-\
: no longer cared for or used by anyone
: failing to do what should be done
Full Definition of DERELICT
1
: abandoned especially by the owner or occupant; also : run-down
2
: lacking a sense of duty : negligent
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Origin of DERELICT
Latin derelictus, past participle of derelinquere to abandon, from de- + relinquere to leave — more at relinquish
Related to DERELICT
- Synonyms
- careless, negligent, disregardful, lax, lazy, neglectful, neglecting, remiss, slack
- Antonyms
- attentive, careful, conscientious, nonnegligent
Rhymes with DERELICT
2derelict
noun
: a person who has no money, job, home, etc.
Full Definition of DERELICT
1
a : something voluntarily abandoned; especially : a ship abandoned on the high seas b : a tract of land left dry by receding water
See derelict defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of DERELICT
1670
Related to DERELICT
- Synonyms
- bum, ne'er–do–well, do-nothing, good-for-nothing, no-account, no-good, no-goodnik, slacker, vagrant
DERELICT Defined for Kids
1derelict
adjective der·e·lict \ˈder-ə-ˌlikt\
Definition of DERELICT for Kids
1
: abandoned by the owner or occupant
2
: in poor condition : run-down <a derelict old building>
3
: failing to do what should be done <They were derelict in their duties.>
2derelict
noun
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