Vocabulary word Delinquent - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

Crime and Lawlessness

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Criminal Justice and Penalties

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SAT 20 (Scholastic Assessment Test)

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Dictionary Definition of delinquent

Failure to conform to accepted norms and standards, especially in the context of the law or social expectations.
"The school has a program for delinquent students who need extra support."

Detailed Meaning of Delinquent

It is commonly used to describe individuals who engage in unlawful or anti-social behavior, such as criminal activities, vandalism, or substance abuse. The term "delinquent" implies a degree of culpability or responsibility for the behavior in question, and is often associated with juvenile delinquency, where young people engage in behavior that is considered to be a violation of legal or social norms. In some cases, the term may also be used to describe financial or business practices that are considered to be unethical or illegal, such as delinquent tax payments or delinquent loans. Overall, the adjective "delinquent" carries a negative connotation and is typically used to describe behavior that is viewed as problematic or harmful to society.

Example Sentences for Delinquent

1. The delinquent behavior of the teenager worried his parents.
2. The court imposed penalties on the delinquent driver for reckless driving.
3. The school counselor worked with delinquent students to help them succeed.
4. The company took legal action against the delinquent debtor.
5. Delinquent accounts can negatively impact a business's finances.
6. The neighborhood watch was established to deter delinquent activity.

Origin and Etymology of Delinquent

The adjective 'delinquent' has its etymology rooted in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'delinquens,' which is the present participle of 'delinquere,' meaning 'to fail' or 'to offend.' In Latin, 'delinquere' was used to describe the act of failing to conform to established norms or standards, particularly in the context of the law. 'Delinquent' entered the English language in the 16th century and is used to describe a person or entity that fails to conform to accepted norms and standards, especially in the context of the law or social expectations. Its etymology underscores the idea of failure or offense, as implied by its Latin origins in 'delinquens' and 'delinquere,' emphasizing actions or behaviors that deviate from established rules or societal norms.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective delinquent:

conforming

disobedient

obedient

compliant

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Delinquent

1. The delinquent tenant was evicted for not paying rent.
2. Social workers provide support to delinquent youth.
3. The judge ordered community service for the delinquent offender.
4. The delinquent employee was terminated for repeated misconduct.
5. The city implemented programs to address delinquent behavior among youth.
6. Delinquent taxes can result in legal consequences.
7. The delinquent borrower faced foreclosure on their home.
8. The school had a program for rehabilitating delinquent students.
9. Law enforcement targeted delinquent areas to reduce crime.
10. The court mandated counseling for the delinquent juvenile.
11. The delinquent account was sent to collections for payment.
12. The delinquent library patron had overdue books for months.
13. The city cracked down on delinquent property owners.
14. The delinquent youth program aimed to provide alternatives to crime.
15. The company implemented stricter policies to address delinquent behavior.
16. The delinquent partygoers were cited for disturbing the peace.
17. The delinquent motorist received a citation for speeding.
18. The delinquent student had a history of disciplinary issues.
19. The delinquent loans were a significant liability for the bank.