Reckless
/ˈrɛkləs/
Definitions
Showing a lack of care about the danger of the results of your actions; heedless; rash.
/ˈrɛkləs/
Showing a lack of care about the danger of the results of your actions.
The reckless driver caused a serious accident.
💡 Simply: Reckless is when you do something without thinking about the bad things that could happen. Like, if you ride your bike down a big hill without brakes, that's reckless!
👶 For kids: When you do something without caring about the bad things that might happen.
More Examples
Her reckless behavior endangered her life and the lives of others.
He made a reckless decision that cost him his job.
How It's Used
"The driver was charged with reckless endangerment after speeding through a school zone."
"His reckless spending habits led him to financial ruin."
From Middle English *reccheles*, from *recche* (to care) + *-les* (without). Originally, the word meant 'careless' or 'heedless', evolving to focus on disregard for consequences.
The word's use has remained consistent, primarily focusing on careless actions and disregard for potential harm.
Memory tip
Imagine someone taking a reckless leap off a cliff, showing no care for the potential fall.