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Definition of neglectful

neglectful

/nɪɡˈlɛkt.fəl/
ne · glect · ful
Adverb:neglectfully
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neglectful Lexical Profile

neglectful Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Failing to give proper care, attention, or regard to a person, duty, or responsibility.

Example

"The landlord was cited by the city for being neglectful of essential building maintenance."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for neglectful
Antonyms
View all antonyms for neglectful

Word Nuance & Usage

'Neglectful' typically describes a personal or habitual failure to care for someone or something (often followed by 'of'), whereas 'negligent' is preferred in formal or legal contexts to indicate a breach of a specific duty of care.

• Rhymes for neglectful

• Nearby Words

negatory
negging
neglect
neglectful
neglectfully
negligee
negligence

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 16th century from the English noun 'neglect' and the suffix '-ful', tracing back to the Latin verb 'neglegere' ('to disregard'), composed of 'nec' ('not') and 'legere' ('to choose or pick up').

Cite this Entry

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