Neglect

Definition

Neglect refers to the act of failing to care for or attend to something or someone properly.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nɪˈɡlɛkt/
• Respelling: ni-GLEKT (with "ni" as in "sit," and "GLEKT" as in "eject")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nɪˈɡlɛkt/
• Respelling: ni-GLEKT (similar to American English, with "ni" as in "sit," and "GLEKT" as in "eject")

In both dialects, "neglect" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "GLEKT." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "ni-GLEKT."

Etymology

The term "neglect" is derived from the Latin word "neglectus," which is the past participle of "negligere," meaning "to disregard or ignore."

Derivatives

• Neglected
• Neglectful
• Neglectfully
• Neglecter
• Negligence

Synonyms

• Overlook
• Ignore
• Disregard

Antonyms

• Attend
• Care
• Heed

Usage

"Neglect" often denotes the omission of proper attention to something or someone, resulting in their decline or suffering.

• The building fell into neglect after years of being abandoned.
• Child neglect is a serious offense that can have lasting psychological effects.
• Many artists feel their work is neglected in mainstream media.

Related Terms

• Abandon
• Forgo
• Oversee

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The Act of Neglecting: Failing to care for or to give proper attention to.‍
• Example: The garden's neglect was evident in its overgrown and wild appearance.

• State of Being Neglected: A state where something is not maintained or cared for.‍
• Example: The house stood in a sad state of neglect.

Verb

• Fail to Care For Properly: Not showing due care or attention to someone or something.‍
• Example: You should not neglect your health.

• Fail to Do or Undertake: Not doing something because of carelessness or intention.‍
• Example: She neglected to inform him about the changes.