Delinquency

/dɪˈlɪŋ.kwən.si/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The act of committing a crime or legal offense, especially by a minor.

The rise in juvenile delinquency has raised concerns among community leaders.

Failure to fulfill a duty or obligation.

His delinquency in paying the rent led to a warning from the landlord.

Minor crime, especially that committed by young people.

Programs aimed at reducing delinquency among adolescents have been introduced in schools.

From Latin 'delinquere', meaning 'to fail' or 'to err'.

juvenile delinquency

Criminal behavior by minors or young people.

delinquency rates

Statistics related to the frequency of delinquent acts.

delinquency prevention

Programs aimed at reducing the occurrence of delinquent behavior.

delinquent

A person who commits wrongdoing or illegal acts, especially a young person.

misdemeanor

A minor wrongdoing in the law.

infractions

Minor violations of rules or laws.

Juvi

He's been in juvi for his delinquent behavior.

Gangsta

That gangsta lifestyle is often associated with delinquency.