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

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

Britain's foreign ministry summoned Iran's ambassador to London, Seyed Ali Mousavi, criticising what it called Tehran's "reckless and destabilising actions" in the UK and overseas.

From Barron's • Mar. 23, 2026

She said their decision-making is “just as reckless as letting a group of amateur pilots dictate how our airplanes should fly.”

From Salon • Mar. 18, 2026

It was encircled by a wild, untended garden fierce in its reckless blooming and accidental color.

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy

Related Words

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