dereliction

Synonyms

Antonyms

Der`e*lic"tion, n. Etym: [L. derelictio.] 1. The act of leaving with an intention not to reclaim or resume; an utter forsaking abandonment. Cession or dereliction, actual or tacit, of other powers. Burke. 2. A neglect or omission as if by willful abandonment. A total dereliction of military duties. Sir W. Scott. 3. The state of being left or abandoned. 4. (Law) Defn: A retiring of the sea, occasioning a change of high-water mark, whereby land is gained.