reckless

[rek-lis] / ˈrɛk lɪs /

ADJECTIVE

irresponsible in thought, deed

Synonyms

STRONGEST

audacious brash carefree careless daring foolhardy hasty ill-advised imprudent negligent thoughtless

WEAK

adventuresome adventurous any which way breakneck daredevil desperate devil-may-care fast and loose feckless harebrained headlong heedless helter-skelter hopeless hotheaded inattentive incautious inconsiderate indiscreet kooky madcap mindless overventuresome playing with fire precipitate rash regardless temerarious uncareful venturesome venturous wild

Antonyms

STRONGEST

afraid attentive careful cautious discreet fearful kind meek mindful prudent reserved shy thoughtful timid wise

WEAK

responsible wary

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Speaking outside court, Cdr Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, said Lavryovych and Carpiuc had been "incredibly reckless".

From BBC • Jun. 19, 2026

Mr. Norman calls Epstein “super-diplomatic and discreet” in business, but he was reckless in his private life.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 12, 2026

International observers have expressed concern, with the US embassy in Mogadishu calling the violence "reckless" and urging dialogue.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

Raman voted against the police raises and the convention center project, calling both efforts financially reckless.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026

"It’s not appropriate for you to be involved with these militants. It is reckless behavior that I will not condone."

From "The Rock and the River" by Kekla Magoon

Vocabulary lists containing reckless

The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 4

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The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone

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Anti-Antonyms: Words Without Opposites

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