reckless

[rek-lis]

adjective

1. utterly unconcerned about the consequences of some action; without caution; careless (usually followed byof ).

   to be reckless of danger.

   Synonyms: imprudent, negligent, incautious, heedless, rash
   Antonyms: careful

2. characterized by or proceeding from such carelessness.

   reckless extravagance.

reckless

/ ˈrɛklɪs /

adjective

1. having or showing no regard for danger or consequences; heedless; rash

   a reckless driver

   a reckless attempt

Other Word Forms

• recklessly adverb
• recklessness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of reckless¹

First recorded before 900; Middle English rekles, Old English reccelēas “careless” (cognate with German ruchlos ); reck, -less

Word History and Origins

Origin of reckless¹

Old English recceleās (see _reck , _-less ); related to Middle Dutch roekeloos , Old High German ruahhalōs

Example Sentences

India needs a clear policy on cough syrups and nationwide awareness among doctors and parents to curb reckless use.

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"We will take this fight to court, but the public cannot stay silent in the face of such reckless and authoritarian conduct by the President of the United States."

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“It is reckless and betrays both common sense and public trust.”

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When Fox News figures casually invoke mass violence, whether through forced lethal injections or bombing international institutions, it’s not just reckless rhetoric.

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Malema was convicted of five offences, including the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, discharging it in a public space and reckless endangerment.

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Related Words

• audacious 
• brash 
• carefree 
• careless 
• daring 
• foolhardy 
• hasty 
• ill-advised 
• imprudent 
• negligent 
• thoughtless