Derelict Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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derelict
[ˈdɛrəlɪkt ]
Definitions
abandoned building
In a state of disrepair, typically as a result of neglect.
Synonyms
abandoned, dilapidated, run-down.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| derelict |
Use 'derelict' to describe a place or thing that has been neglected and left in very poor condition. It often implies a total state of disrepair without hope of restoration.
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| abandoned |
Use 'abandoned' to describe something that has been deserted or left behind by its owners or inhabitants. It doesn't necessarily convey the extent of disrepair.
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| dilapidated |
Use 'dilapidated' to describe buildings or structures that are in a very bad condition due to age or neglect. It suggests visible deterioration.
|
| run-down |
Use 'run-down' to describe areas or buildings that have deteriorated through neglect and lack of maintenance. It often conveys a sense of being tired and shabby.
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Examples of usage
- The derelict house had broken windows and overgrown weeds.
- The derelict factory was a dangerous place to explore.
person
A person without a home, job, or property.
Synonyms
beggar, homeless person, vagrant.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| derelict |
This word is often used to describe a building or structure that is abandoned or in poor condition. It is not commonly used to describe people.
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| vagrant |
This term is used for someone who has no fixed home and wanders from place to place, often seen as carrying a negative connotation.
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| homeless person |
This is the most neutral and respectful way to refer to someone who does not have a permanent place to live. It is commonly used in formal and informal contexts.
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| beggar |
This term is used for someone who asks others for money or food in public places. It often carries a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- He was a derelict living on the streets.
- The city provided shelters for the derelicts in the area.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Societal Implications
- In urban settings, derelict buildings can be seen as symbols of neglect and economic decline in neighborhoods.
- The presence of derelict sites often correlates with social issues such as poverty and unemployment, drawing attention to community revitalization efforts.
Literature
- In novels and poetry, derelict places often symbolize lost hopes, dreams, or memory, acting as metaphors for abandonment in human relationships.
- Famous literary works have used derelict imagery to evoke feelings of nostalgia and decay, inviting readers to reflect on the past.
Art and Culture
- Street art often finds inspiration in derelict buildings, turning neglected spaces into canvases showcasing vibrant community talent.
- Photographers frequently capture derelict locations to highlight beauty in decay, sparking conversations about history and preservation.
Legal Context
- In legal terms, 'derelict' can refer to ships that have been abandoned at sea, signaling issues of ownership and responsibility.
- The term applies in various contexts where property is abandoned, raising questions about liability and regulatory measures for urban cleanup.
Origin of 'derelict'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'derelictus,' which means 'abandoned' or 'forsaken.'
- It entered the English language in the mid-15th century, initially referring to a person who was cast away or neglected.
The word 'derelict' originated from the Latin word 'derelictus', which means 'abandoned'. It was first used in the 16th century to describe abandoned or forsaken property. Over time, the term evolved to also refer to individuals who are neglected or without means. The concept of dereliction has been prevalent in literature and social discourse, highlighting the plight of those who are marginalized or forgotten by society.