adj
C2
Proficient
derelict
DEHR-uh-lihkt
Derelict (adj) means Abandoned and left to fall into disrepair. Example: “The derelict factory has been empty for over a decade.”
adj
1
Abandoned and left to fall into disrepair.
"The derelict factory has been empty for over a decade."
"Kids used to dare each other to explore the derelict house on the hill."
noun
1
Property, or occasionally a person, abandoned and left with nobody to care for it.
"The ship was found adrift, a derelict with no crew aboard."
How to use derelict
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishLeft to rot or fall apart because nobody is looking after it anymore.
Common pairings
derelict building
derelict ship
fall derelict
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Word forms
- Plural
- derelicts
- Third person singular
- derelicts
- Past tense
- derelicted
- Comparative
- more derelict
- Superlative
- most derelict
Fill the gap
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The _____ factory has been empty for over a decade.
Etymology
From Latin derelictus, "completely abandoned," the past participle of derelinquere, "to abandon utterly."
Synonyms
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abandoned ship
bedraggled
creaky
delinquent
abandoned
remiss
neglectful
dilapidated
decrepit
deserted
ramshackle
tatterdemalion
Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “derelict” mean?
The word “derelict” means abandoned and left to fall into disrepair. In plain terms, left to rot or fall apart because nobody is looking after it anymore.
How do you pronounce “derelict”?
“Derelict” is pronounced DEHR-uh-lihkt (/ˈdɛɹəˌlɪk(t)/ in IPA).
How do you use “derelict” in a sentence?
Here is “derelict” used in a sentence: “The derelict factory has been empty for over a decade.”
What part of speech is “derelict”?
Depending on how it is used, “derelict” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “derelict” come from?
The word “derelict” comes from Latin. From Latin derelictus, "completely abandoned," the past participle of derelinquere, "to abandon utterly.".
How many meanings does “derelict” have?
“Derelict” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: abandoned and left to fall into disrepair.
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