derelict
DEHR-uh-likt
/ˈdɛrəlɪkt/
In a very poor condition as a result of disuse and neglect; abandoned by the owner.
Applied primarily to physical structures, ships, or lands, but can also refer to a person who is abandoned or negligent (e.g., 'derelict in duty').
The story behind the word. From Latin 'derelictus', past participle of 'derelinquere' ('to abandon entirely'). This combines the intensive prefix 'de-' with 'relinquere' ('to leave behind' or 'relinquish'). A derelict structure is one completely relinquished to the elements.
Word relationships
- dilapidated: Dilapidated focuses on falling apart or ruinous decay, whereas derelict stresses complete abandonment.
- abandoned: Abandoned simply means left behind, while derelict implies decay and neglect resulting from abandonment.
- maintained: Maintained properties are cared for and kept in good repair.
Commonly confused with
- relic: A relic is a historical object preserved from the past, while derelict refers to something abandoned and falling apart.
Word family
- dereliction (noun): The state of being abandoned; willful neglect of obligation.
Collocations
- derelict building
- derelict property
- derelict in duty
Idioms & expressions
- derelict of duty
Example sentences
- "The city transformed the derelict warehouse into a thriving community art center." Urban Policy
- "The abandoned vessel was classified as a derelict ship and towed to port." Maritime Law
Memory hook
DE-RELICT = RE-RELINQUISH. Something completely RELINQUISHED and abandoned. DE-RELINQUISHED property left to decay.
When not to use
Do not use to describe something merely old; it must show severe neglect and abandonment.
Fun facts
- In maritime law, finding a 'derelict' ship grants salvage rights to rescuers, provided the owner abandoned it without intention to return.
Related words
Explore more words
dereliction, dilapidated, decrepitude, desolate, squalor, negligent
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