derelict Hear it!

derelict definition

der·elict (der′ə likt′)

adjective

  1. deserted by the owner; abandoned; forsaken
  2. ☆ neglectful of duty; remiss; negligent

Etymology: L derelictus, pp. of derelinquere, to forsake utterly, abandon < de-, intens. + relinquere: see relinquish

noun

  1. a property abandoned by the owner; esp., an abandoned ship on the open sea
  2. a destitute person, without a home or regular job and rejected by society
  3. land exposed by the receding of water

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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