reckless

UK: /ˈrɛkləs/ US: /ˈrɛklɪs/ ,(rek′lis)

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026

reck•less /ˈrɛklɪs/   adj. 

1. completely unconcerned about the consequences or results of one's actions;
   rash;
   careless:
   reckless drivers.
2. characterized by or proceeding from such carelessness:
   reckless spending.

reck•less•ly, adv.: 

drove recklessly.

reck•less•ness, n. [uncountable]

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026

reck•less  (rek′lis), adj. 

1. utterly unconcerned about the consequences of some action;
   without caution;
   careless (usually fol. by of ):
   to be reckless of danger.
2. characterized by or proceeding from such carelessness:
   reckless extravagance.

• bef. 900; Middle English rekles, Old English reccelēas careless (cognate with German ruchlos); see reck, -less

reck′less•ly, adv. 
reck′less•ness, n. 
Synonyms

• 1. rash, heedless, incautious, negligent, imprudent.

Antonyms

• 1. careful.

Collins Concise English Dictionary © HarperCollins Publishers::

reckless / ˈrɛklɪs/ adjective

1. having or showing no regard for danger or consequences; heedless; rash

Etymology: Old English recceleās (see reck, -less); related to Middle Dutch roekeloos, Old High German ruahhalōs

ˈrecklessly adverb

ˈrecklessness noun