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Showing results for gross negligence. Search instead for Gross+Negligence.

gross negligence

American  
[grohs neg-li-juhns] / ˈgroʊs ˈnɛg lɪ dʒəns /

noun

Law.
  1. in general, an act or practice of negligence that demonstrates a willful and reckless disregard for others’ safety and an indifference to their rights, such as speeding through a busy parking lot: interpreted differently in different jurisdictions.


Etymology

Origin of gross negligence

First recorded in 1665–75

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.

See Examples For:

Potential offences under consideration include corporate gross negligence manslaughter, fraud, health and safety breaches and misconduct in public office.

From BBC May 19, 2026

States are also required to check a federal blacklist of providers that committed crimes, gross negligence, fraud or patient abuse, as well as visit providers deemed a high fraud risk.

From The Wall Street Journal Apr. 29, 2026

It is part of the force's ongoing Operation Duet - two separate investigations into corporate manslaughter and gross negligence manslaughter at the hospital.

From BBC Apr. 23, 2026

The lawsuits they have filed, accusing the Eastlands of gross negligence, are but one of the obstacles as the family pushes ahead with plans to reopen on May 30.

From The Wall Street Journal Apr. 18, 2026

Any member who shall wilfully or by gross negligence damage any property belonging the club shall immediately have the same repaired at his own expense.

From Boating by Woodgate, W. B.

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