What does neglect mean Meaning and Definition
What does neglect mean
Pronunciation
nor-ˈjekt, ˈnik-t̬ (ˌnɪˈkɛt/)
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
The act of leaving something or someone in a state of being without proper care, attention, or support, often resulting in harm or impairment.
Examples
- The neglect of the playground led to its deterioration over time.
- Her mother’s neglect of her mental health ultimately led to her hospitalization.
Synonyms
- Abandon
- Igore
Antonyms
- Care
- Maintain
Etymology
The word “neglect” comes from the Latin “negligere”, meaning “to be careless of”.
Usage Notes
When using the word “neglect”, it’s essential to consider the context in which it’s being used. Avoid using it to describe honest mistakes or unintentional oversights.
Cultural References
In the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, the theme of neglect is explored through the character of Tom Robinson, who was wrongly accused and neglected by the justice system.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Neglected child” refers to a child who has been abandoned or left without proper care.
- “Neglectful parenting” refers to parenting that is lacking in attention or care.
Related Words or Phrases
- Abandon
- Igore
- Disregard
Collocations
- “Neglect of duty”
- “Neglect of responsibility”
Frequency of Use
The word “neglect” is commonly used in various contexts, including social justice, education, and healthcare.
Common Misspellings
- neglecte
- niglect