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Definition of delinquency

delinquency

/dɪˈlɪŋ.kwən.si/
de · lin · quen · cy
Adverb:delinquently
•
Plural:delinquencies
•
Adjective:delinquent
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delinquency Lexical Profile

delinquency Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Minor crime or antisocial behavior, especially that committed by young people.

Example

"After-school mentorship programs have proven effective in reducing juvenile delinquency in urban neighborhoods."

2

Neglect of one's duty or failure to pay an outstanding financial obligation on time.

Example

"Rising credit card delinquency rates often signal broader economic strain among households."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for delinquency

• Nearby Words

delimit
delineate
delink
delinquency
delinquent
delirious
deliriously

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from Late Latin delinquentia ('a fault or crime'), from Latin delinquere ('to fail, be wanting, or offend'), formed from de- ('completely') and linquere ('to leave').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Delinquency. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/delinquency
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