Delinquent: meaning, definitions and examples

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delinquent

 

[ dɪˈlɪŋkwənt ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Failing to do what the law or duty requires; overdue in payment.

Synonyms

culpable, irresponsible, negligent

Examples of usage

  • He was declared delinquent for not paying his taxes on time.
  • The company is facing penalties for delinquent behavior.
Context #2 | Noun

person

A person, typically young, who has a tendency to commit crimes or engage in antisocial behavior.

Synonyms

criminal, offender, troublemaker

Examples of usage

  • The delinquent was arrested for vandalism.
  • The school is implementing programs to prevent students from becoming delinquents.

Translations

Translations of the word "delinquent" in other languages:

🇵🇹 delinquente

🇮🇳 अपराधी

🇩🇪 Straftäter

🇮🇩 pelanggar

🇺🇦 правопорушник

🇵🇱 przestępca

🇯🇵 非行者 (ひこうしゃ)

🇫🇷 délinquant

🇪🇸 delincuente

🇹🇷 suçlu

🇰🇷 비행자

🇸🇦 جانح

🇨🇿 delikvent

🇸🇰 delikvent

🇨🇳 违法者

🇸🇮 prekrškar

🇮🇸 afbrotamaður

🇰🇿 қылмыскер

🇬🇪 დამნაშავე

🇦🇿 cinayətkar

🇲🇽 delincuente

Word origin

The word 'delinquent' originated from the Latin word 'delinquere', which means 'to fail' or 'to be lacking'. Over time, its usage evolved to refer to individuals who fail to meet legal or moral obligations. The term gained prominence in the context of law enforcement and juvenile justice systems, where 'delinquent' is used to describe individuals who have committed criminal acts or exhibit antisocial behavior.

See also: delinquency.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,829 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.