reckless

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈrekləs/
• American: RECK-less

Origin

From Middle English 'rekles', derived from Old English 'recceleas', meaning "careless, thoughtless" (from 'reck' meaning "to care" + '-less')

Meanings

1. (adj) Acting without thinking about the consequences; dangerously careless
2. (adj) Showing lack of care about danger or the consequences of actions
3. (adj) Utterly unconcerned about the consequences of some action

Example Sentences

1. "The reckless driver swerved between lanes at high speed."
2. "It would be reckless to invest all your savings in one stock."
3. "His reckless behavior at the party caused several accidents."
4. "The teenager made a reckless decision to swim in the stormy sea."

Related Words

• Forms:

  • recklessly (adv)
  • recklessness (n)

• Synonyms:

  • careless
  • irresponsible
  • foolhardy
  • hasty
  • impetuous
  • thoughtless

• Antonyms:

  • careful
  • cautious
  • prudent
  • responsible

Memory Tricks

1. Break it down: "RECK" (to care about) + "LESS" = caring less about consequences
2. Think: "WRECK-LESS" - someone who is reckless might cause a wreck
3. Remember the phrase: "If you're reckless, you might end up in a mess"
4. Picture a race car driver taking dangerous risks without thinking about safety