heedless

[ heed-lis ]

adjective

1. careless; thoughtless; unmindful:

   Heedless of the danger, he returned to the burning building to save his dog.

   Synonyms: uncaring, unconcerned, negligent, indifferent, oblivious

   Antonyms: heedful, mindful, cautious

heedless

/ ˈhiːdlɪs /

adjective

1. taking little or no notice; careless or thoughtless

Derived Forms

• ˈheedlessness, noun
• ˈheedlessly, adverb

Other Words From

• heedless·ly adverb
• heedless·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of heedless¹

First recorded in 1570–80; heed + -less

Example Sentences

A widespread uprooting of families and innocents as a heedless and heartless deportation policy drives a scythe through immigrant communities.

From Los Angeles Times

I might have been headed anywhere, even onto the ballroom floor beneath the heedless feet of all those milling humans.

From Literature

She said the new working plans were being implemented in a "heavy-handed way, heedless of the consequences".

From BBC

Throughout the war, Palestinians and relief organizations have accused Israel of bombing indiscriminately, heedless of civilian casualties — claims Israel has consistently denied.

From Seattle Times

But what if just the opposite of this heedless obituary for the avant-garde is true?

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• inattentive
• reckless