English vocabulary · C1
Delinquent
/dɪˈlɪŋkwənt/ · adj., n.
Delinquent describes an overdue payment or failed duty. It can also describe someone who repeatedly breaks laws.
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Example sentences
- The delinquent account drew a warning.
- We collected delinquent payments.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- delinquere — fail (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- LATE — not on time (Delayed Beyond The Time)
- NEGLECTFUL — failing to take care (Careless About Duties)
- OVERDUE — still unpaid or unfinished (Past The Deadline)
Similar words
- overdue
- late
- neglectful
- defaulting
- offending
Lesson notes
Delinquent describes an overdue payment or failed duty. It can also describe someone who repeatedly breaks laws.
Related: Late, NEGLECTFUL, OVERDUE. Use DELINQUENT when a required payment stays overdue
The delinquent account drew a warning. We collected delinquent payments.
From Latin. Delinquere means fail. Latin delinquere became English delinquent.