Dictionary
neglectful
adjective ne·glect·ful \ni-ˈglek(t)-fəl\
: not giving enough care or attention to someone or something
Full Definition of NEGLECTFUL
: given to neglecting : careless, heedless
— ne·glect·ful·ly \-fə-lē\ adverb
— ne·glect·ful·ness noun
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First Known Use of NEGLECTFUL
1624
Related to NEGLECTFUL
- Synonyms
- careless, derelict, disregardful, lax, lazy, negligent, neglecting, remiss, slack
- Antonyms
- attentive, careful, conscientious, nonnegligent
Synonym Discussion of NEGLECTFUL
negligent, neglectful, lax, slack, remiss mean culpably careless or indicative of such carelessness. negligent implies inattention to one's duty or business <negligent about writing a note of thanks>. neglectful adds a more disapproving implication of laziness or deliberate inattention <a society callously neglectful of the poor>. lax implies a blameworthy lack of strictness, severity, or precision <a reporter lax about accurate quotation>. slack implies want of due or necessary diligence or care <slack workmanship>. remiss implies blameworthy carelessness shown in slackness, forgetfulness, or neglect <had been remiss in their familial duties>.
NEGLECTFUL Defined for Kids
neglectful
adjective ne·glect·ful \ni-ˈglekt-fəl\
Definition of NEGLECTFUL for Kids
: not looking after or giving attention to : negligent
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