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reckless
/ˈrɛkləs/
careless of danger
He drove at reckless speeds on the icy road.
He drove extremely fast and dangerously on the slippery road.
general
Showing a lack of care or caution about possible dangers or consequences.
The reckless driver ignored the traffic signs and caused an accident.
The driver who didn't care about traffic rules caused a crash.
Her reckless spending left her in debt.
She spent money carelessly, leading to financial trouble.
Law
formal
In law, acting without reasonable care that a prudent person would exercise.
The company was found guilty of reckless endangerment due to unsafe working conditions.
The company failed to ensure safety, risking workers' lives.
Collocations
reckless behavioractions showing lack of cautionreckless drivingdangerous operation of a vehiclereckless abandoncomplete lack of restraint or caution
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid common mistakes
Don't confuse 'reckless' with 'relentless' (which means persistent or unyielding). 'Reckless' always implies a negative lack of caution, while 'relentless' can be neutral or positive.
Gold Rule
Context matters
Use 'reckless' to describe actions that show a disregard for safety or consequences. It’s stronger than 'careless' and often implies potential harm.
Word Origin
From Middle English *reckless* (meaning 'careless'), derived from Old English *receleas* ('reck' meaning 'care' + '-less' suffix indicating absence). The word evolved from Old English to Middle English with a shift in meaning from 'without care' to 'careless of danger.'
Usage Notes
Often used to describe actions that could harm oneself or others. In legal contexts, 'reckless' implies a higher degree of negligence than mere carelessness but less than intentional harm.
Word Breakdown
reck
care or concern (from Old English *rece*)
root-less
without
suffixEnglish Dictionary