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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:

Newsom also signed AB 1685, which would increase the number of points against a driver’s record if they’re convicted of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and with gross negligence.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 25, 2026

In July 2025, three former senior staff at the Countess of Chester hospital were arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter.

From BBC ● Sep. 15, 2026

After the crash, Bustillos was charged with one count of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 30, 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

Amongst the number was a censure upon the High Sheriff, for his delay in calling the meeting, and his gross negligence in being absent from the county at such an important period.

From Memoirs of Henry Hunt, Esq. — Volume 2 by Henry Hunt

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