recklessly

UK: ˈrɛkləsli | US: ˈrɛkləsli

Definition
  1. adv. without care or caution; acting with disregard for consequences

  2. adv. in a wild or impulsive manner

Structure
reckless <heedless>ly <adverb suffix>
Etymology

The word "recklessly" derives from the Old English "receleas," combining "rece" (care, caution) + "leas" (without). Over time, "rece" evolved into "reck," meaning "heed" or "regard," while "leas" became the suffix "-less," denoting absence. The adverb suffix "-ly" was added to form "recklessly," literally meaning "without heed." The term captures the idea of acting without consideration for danger or consequences, reflecting its Germanic roots in describing careless behavior.

Examples
  1. He drove recklessly through the narrow streets, ignoring all traffic signs.

  2. The children ran recklessly across the wet floor, slipping and laughing.

  3. Investing recklessly without research can lead to significant financial losses.

  4. She spent her savings recklessly on unnecessary luxuries.

  5. The storm tore recklessly through the village, leaving destruction in its wake.