juvenile delinquent

American  

noun

1. a minor who cannot be controlled by parental authority and commits antisocial or criminal acts, as vandalism or violence.

2. a child or youth characterized by juvenile delinquency.

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juvenile delinquent British  

noun

1. a child or young person guilty of some offence, act of vandalism, or antisocial behaviour or whose conduct is beyond parental control and who may be brought before a juvenile court

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Etymology

Origin of juvenile delinquent

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

During Easter week, the pope chose to perform the traditional washing of others’ feet in a facility for juvenile delinquents.

From Los Angeles Times

The agency also stepped up policing in entertainment districts and measures against juvenile delinquents and motorcycle gangs.

From Seattle Times

"I've gotten close to Bobby and his sister. I've seen him turn from basically a juvenile delinquent into a very thoughtful, caring adult. He grew up."

From BBC

If the Avengers are swaggering mall cops who maintain order for the purpose of selling T-shirts and toys, Shazam is the juvenile delinquent shoplifting their dignity.

From New York Times

I can’t get past the feeling that this is just some juvenile delinquent trying to freak everybody out.

From Literature

Related Words

• delinquent
• gangster
• hoodlum
• hooligan
• troublemaker