1. failing to take proper care in doing something; careless or inattentive
2. failing to exercise the care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in like circumstances
Usage: legal

Examples

• The negligent driver caused a serious accident.
• She was negligent in maintaining her equipment.
• The company was found negligent in its safety procedures.
• His negligent attitude toward his studies resulted in poor grades.
• The court ruled that the doctor was negligent in the patient’s care.
• Negligent supervision led to the workplace injury.