# derelict

/ˈdɛɹəˌɫɪkt/ (US) · /dˈɛɹɪlˌɪkt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/derelict
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

describing a building or piece of land that is in very bad condition because it has been ignored for a long time.

For teachers: in a state of advanced physical decay or neglect; abandoned by an owner or occupant. Often used to describe urban infrastructure or maritime vessels.

## Examples

- The old factory has been derelict for over twenty years.
- Local teenagers often hang out in the derelict warehouse at the edge of the industrial estate.
- The city council is under increasing pressure to repurpose derelict properties in the downtown core to address the growing housing crisis.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun or predicatively after a linking verb like 'remain' or 'stand'.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.