dereliction
|der/e/lic/tion|
🇺🇸
/ˌdɛrəˈlɪkʃən/
🇬🇧
/ˌdɛrɪˈlɪkʃən/
abandonment and neglect
Etymology
'dereliction' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'derelictio,' where 'de-' meant 'away' and 'relinquere' meant 'to leave.'
'derelictio' transformed into the Old French word 'dereliction,' and eventually became the modern English word 'dereliction' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'abandonment,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'abandonment and neglect' and 'failure to fulfill obligations.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the state of having been abandoned and become dilapidated.
The dereliction of the old factory was evident from the broken windows and overgrown weeds.
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Noun 2
a shameful failure to fulfill one's obligations.
His dereliction of duty led to severe consequences for the company.
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Last updated: 2025/02/09 11:00