Definition of "delinquent" adjective comparative more delinquent , superlative most delinquent
One who disobeys or breaks rules or laws , or who acts against another 's wishes . quotations examples
Quotations She had the consolation of knowing that any offence given to her dignity could be avenged on the delinquent who caused it, an act of justice which could not fail to be consolatory , since every one of her daughters had at times stood in stead of "guid King James 's whipping -boy ," when circumstances arose to disturb the equanimity of Lady Anne 's imperious and irascible temper .
1838 (date written), L[etitia] E[lizabeth] L[andon], chapter XXI, in Lady Anne Granard; or, Keeping up Appearances. […], volume I, London: Henry Colburn, […], published 1842, page 269