Meaning & Definition of word "Delinquent"
Delinquent
/dɪˈlɪŋkwənt/
noun:
- 1. a person, especially a young one, who is guilty of a crime or misconduct.
- Example: The juvenile court deals with delinquent offenders who have committed criminal acts.
- 2. a person who fails to pay a debt or meet an obligation.
- Example: As a delinquent, he faced consequences from his creditors due to unpaid loans.
adjective:
- 1. tending to commit crime, particularly minor crime.
- Example: The school implemented a program to assist delinquent youth in finding productive activities.
- 2. failing to do what the law or duty requires.
- Example: The delinquent account had accumulated a significant amount of interest due to late payments.
Etymology
●From Latin delinquent-, delinquentem, present participle of delinqui meaning 'to fail or to offend'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
juvenile delinquent:
A young person who commits illegal acts.
delinquent account:
An account that is overdue or in default.
delinquent behavior:
Behavior that is criminal or violates social norms.
Related Words
offense:
An act that violates a law or rule.
misconduct:
Unacceptable or improper behavior.
lawbreaker:
A person who violates the law.
Slang Meanings of delinquent
Meaning: Juvenile
● Example Sentence: He's just a juvenile hanging out with the wrong crowd.
Meaning: Rebel
● Example Sentence: That kid is a rebel, always getting into trouble.