Definition of neglect
transitive verb
1 : to give little attention or respect to : disregard The building has been neglected for years.
2 : to leave undone or unattended to especially through carelessness The prison guard neglected his duty.
neglecter
nounExplore M-W
Examples of neglect in a Sentence
The building has been neglected for years.
The city has neglected the teacher shortage for too long.
The prison guard neglected his duty.
Synonym Discussion of neglect
neglect
Definition of neglect
1 : an act or instance of neglecting something
2 : the condition of being neglected
Examples of neglect in a Sentence
The park was overgrown and littered from years of neglect.
The parents were charged with child neglect.
The house is in a state of neglect.
Origin and Etymology of neglect
see 1neglect
NEGLECT Defined for English Language Learners
neglect
playDefinition of neglect for English Language Learners
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: to fail to take care of or to give attention to (someone or something)
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: to fail to do (something)
neglect
Definition of neglect for English Language Learners
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: lack of attention or care that someone or something needs
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: the condition of not being taken care of
NEGLECT Defined for Kids
Definition of neglect for Students
neglected
;neglecting
1 : to fail to give the right amount of attention to The property has been neglected.
2 : to fail to do or look after especially because of carelessness She neglected to say goodbye.
Definition of neglect for Students
1 : lack of attention or care to something or someone neglect of duty
2 : the state of not being looked after or given attention The house suffers from neglect.
Law Dictionary
neglect
Legal Definition of neglect
: a disregard of duty resulting from carelessness, indifference, or willfulness; especially : a failure to provide a child under one's care with proper food, clothing, shelter, supervision, medical care, or emotional stability — compare abuse 2, negligence
neglect
transitive verbneglectful
adjectiveLearn More about neglect
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See words that rhyme with neglect Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for neglect Spanish Central: Translation of neglect Nglish: Translation of neglect for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of neglect for Arabic speakers
Seen and Heard
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