reckless
Americanadjective
adjective
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of reckless
First recorded before 900; Middle English rekles, Old English reccelēas “careless” (cognate with German ruchlos ); see reck, -less
Explanation
If you are reckless, you don't think or care about the consequences of your words or actions, like a reckless driver who speeds while texting, knitting, and eating a sandwich. The word reckless comes from the Old English word receleas, meaning "careless, thoughtless, heedless." If you have a reckless attitude, you aren't concerned about what happens to yourself or others who are affected by your actions. In this usage, reckless is the opposite of considerate. Reckless friends will invite people you don't know to your house because with your parents away, it's party time. Surprise!
Vocabulary lists containing reckless
The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 4
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The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone
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Anti-Antonyms: Words Without Opposites
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It also seems fair to demand more of a Senate candidate than of the most reckless bro on the block.
From Slate • Jun. 5, 2026
International observers have expressed concern, with the US embassy in Mogadishu calling the violence "reckless" and urging dialogue.
From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026
Raman voted against the police raises and the convention center project, calling both efforts financially reckless.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026
That would have been an almost reckless gamble.
From BBC • May 28, 2026
I am sincerely sorry that my reckless behavior did not reflect the values of Seaward Pines Academy, where we respect rules always.
From "Merci Suárez Changes Gears" by Meg Medina
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
