reckless

American  

[rek-lis] / ˈrɛk lɪs /

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.

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reckless British  

/ ˈrɛklɪs /

adjective

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

   a reckless driver

   a reckless attempt

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Other Word Forms

• recklessly adverb
• recklessness noun

Etymology

Origin of reckless

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

Example Sentences

"We found that flies consuming caffeine at night were less able to suppress movement, displaying impulsive behaviors such as reckless flying despite these aversive conditions."

From Science Daily • Mar. 31, 2026

Writing in The Times, Sir Keir Starmer said the decision last week by the doctors' union to reject the deal offered to them and announce the 15th walkout of the long-running dispute was "reckless".

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

And it keeps its scale small: Warring nations or governments are barely discussed, the reckless conflict of statesmen taken almost as a given.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

His dad was found guilty of reckless driving in 2015 but had no other criminal convictions that we could find in the United States.

From Salon • Mar. 24, 2026

Pinmei felt relief flood through her, the waves of gratitude carrying her in reckless abandon, as they crashed through the open door.

From "When the Sea Turned to Silver" by Grace Lin

Related Words

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