juvenile delinquent

noun

1. a minor who cannot be controlled by parental authority and commits antisocial or criminal acts, as vandalism or violence.
2. a child or youth characterized by juvenile delinquency.

juvenile delinquent

noun

1. a child or young person guilty of some offence, act of vandalism, or antisocial behaviour or whose conduct is beyond parental control and who may be brought before a juvenile court

Word History and Origins

Origin of juvenile delinquent¹

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

The agency also stepped up policing in entertainment districts and measures against juvenile delinquents and motorcycle gangs.

From Seattle Times

It’s up to them to tell us if the former president scowled and guffawed like a fearless strongman or fell asleep in his chair like a disaffected juvenile delinquent.

From Los Angeles Times

"I've gotten close to Bobby and his sister. I've seen him turn from basically a juvenile delinquent into a very thoughtful, caring adult. He grew up."

From BBC

If the Avengers are swaggering mall cops who maintain order for the purpose of selling T-shirts and toys, Shazam is the juvenile delinquent shoplifting their dignity.

From New York Times

When I was a juvenile delinquent, I never really thought about the role my parents played in my life.

From Salon

Related Words

• delinquent
• gangster
• hoodlum
• hooligan
• troublemaker