Deadbeat

usgb/ˈdedbiːt/
noun

A person who doesn't fulfill their obligations, especially the one who avoids paying debts.

Her ex-husband is a deadbeat dad because he refuses to pay child support.
Visual representation of "deadbeat" - A person who doesn't fulfill their obligations, especially the one who avoids paying debts.

Often appears as...

  • deadbeat dad
  • deadbeat mom

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "deadbeat"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Tone

The term 'deadbeat' is often used with a strong negative tone to express disapproval.

Illustration for Negative Tone
Don't trust him with money, he's a complete deadbeat.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Personal Relationships

'Deadbeat' can damage relationships if used to label someone, as it implies unreliability.

Illustration for Personal Relationships
My sister called her boyfriend a deadbeat, and they broke up.
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Avoid in Formality

Not suitable for formal contexts; use more polite terms like 'financially irresponsible' instead.

Illustration for Avoid in Formality
In the business meeting, we referred to the client as 'financially unreliable,' not a 'deadbeat.'
Visual representation of the word "Deadbeat"

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