neglectful

adjective

ne·​glect·​ful ni-ˈglek(t)-fəl 

: given to neglecting : careless, heedless

neglectfully

ni-ˈglek(t)-fə-lē 

adverb

neglectfulness noun

Synonyms

• careless
• derelict
• disregardful
• lax
• lazy
• neglecting
• negligent
• remiss
• slack

Choose the Right Synonym for neglectful

negligent, neglectful, lax, slack, remiss mean culpably careless or indicative of such carelessness.

negligent implies inattention to one's duty or business.

negligent about writing a note of thanks

neglectful adds a more disapproving implication of laziness or deliberate inattention.

a society callously neglectful of the poor

lax implies a blameworthy lack of strictness, severity, or precision.

a reporter lax about accurate quotation

slack implies want of due or necessary diligence or care.

slack workmanship

remiss implies blameworthy carelessness shown in slackness, forgetfulness, or neglect.

had been remiss in their familial duties

Examples of neglectful in a Sentence

he's certainly not a neglectful father as he takes very good care of his children

Recent Examples on the Web

So many negative family cycles—such as unhealthy communication or neglectful parenting patterns—are fueled by unresolved pain or frustration over past events. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 19 Dec. 2024

Just like his neglectful father did, the scribe devalues his wife and child to chase someone else’s idea of success. —Mike Fleming Jr, Deadline, 3 Dec. 2024

Parents raised in authoritarian or neglectful households may struggle to break away from ingrained beliefs about discipline and respect. —Hannah Nwoko, Parents, 2 Dec. 2024

Whatever the reason, an emotionally neglectful parent harms a child’s development. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 26 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

neglect entry 2 + -ful entry 1

First Known Use

1624, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

neglectful

adjective

ne·​glect·​ful ni-ˈglek(t)-fəl 

: given to neglecting : careless

neglectfully

-fə-lē 

adverb