reckless

[rek-lis]

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.

reckless

/ ˈrɛklɪs /

adjective

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

   a reckless driver

   a reckless attempt

Other Word Forms

• recklessly adverb
• recklessness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of reckless¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of reckless¹

Old English recceleās (see _reck , _-less ); related to Middle Dutch roekeloos , Old High German ruahhalōs

Example Sentences

When villains use it to frame Tony for extorting money from a hospital and threaten Tali’s life, Tony and Ziva are dragged back into a life of running, shooting, reckless driving and fisticuffs.

From Los Angeles Times

She was cleared on a reckless driving charge.

From Los Angeles Times

A filing from Dominion’s lawsuit revealed that Pirro’s own Fox producer called her a “reckless maniac.”

From Salon

"Auto manufacturers do not insure the world against harms caused by reckless drivers," the company said.

From BBC

They said she was being targeted for refusing "to rubber-stamp unscientific, reckless directives and fire dedicated health experts" and accused Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr of "weaponising public health".

From BBC

Related Words

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