Something derelict has been left behind, or at least appears that way. In another sense, someone who is derelict leaves behind or neglects their duties or obligations.

derelict noun [C] (PERSON) a person with no home, job, or money who often lives on the streets (Definition of derelict from the Cambridge Academic Content Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)

1. left or deserted, as by the owner or guardian; abandoned: a derelict ship. 2. neglectful of duty; delinquent; negligent. n. 3. a person who has no home or means of support.

Apr 30, 2026 · Adjective derelict (comparative more derelict, superlative most derelict) Given up by the guardian or owner; abandoned, forsaken. Synonyms: dropped, forlorn; see also Thesaurus: abandoned

Definition of derelict adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Derelict definition: Neglectful of duty or obligation; remiss.

der•e•lict /ˈdɛrəlɪkt/ adj. [often before a noun] left or deserted; abandoned: a derelict ship. neglecting duty; delinquent: fired for being derelict in his duties. n. [countable] a person who has no home or …

Unfaithful; neglectful of requirement or responsibility: as, derelict in duty. noun That which is abandoned; in law, an article of goods or any commodity thrown away, relinquished, or abandoned by the owner; …

DERELICT definition: left or deserted, as by the owner or guardian; abandoned. See examples of derelict used in a sentence.

'Derelict' is used to describe something that has been abandoned, neglected, or left in a state of disrepair and decay due to a lack of maintenance or care. The term embodies the concept of total …