Definition

In a way that shows a tendency to commit crimes or behave badly, often referring to young people.

Example

The teenager acted delinquently, causing trouble in the neighborhood.

Conversation

Did you hear about the kids who acted delinquently at the park last week?

Yeah, I saw that on the news; it was pretty shocking!

I wonder what makes them behave so delinquently in the first place.

Maybe they just need better role models or something.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Delinquently → It is formed from "delinquent" (from Latin *delinquere*, meaning to fail or to offend) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "delinquently" means in a manner that is characteristic of a failure to fulfill a duty or an offense.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who has 'failed' ('delinquere') to meet their responsibilities, and the '-ly' shows how they act — that's why delinquently means acting in a way that reflects such failure.

Visually Confused Words