remiss Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite failing in what duty requires
    neglectful; derelict; delinquent.
    • derelict (or delinquent) in his duty
    • neglectful of his duties
    • remiss of you not to pay your bills

WordNet

Re*miss" adjective
Etymology
L. remissus, p. p. of remittere to send back, relax. See Remit.
Definitions
  1. Not energetic or exact in duty or business; not careful or prompt in fulfilling engagements; negligent; careless; tardy; behindhand; lagging; slack; hence, lacking earnestness or activity; languid; slow.
    Thou never wast remiss, I bear thee witness. Milton.
    These nervous, bold; those languid and remiss. Roscommon.
    Its motion becomes more languid and remiss. Woodward.
    Syn. -- Slack; dilatory; slothful; negligent; careless; neglectful; inattentive; heedles; thoughtless.
Re*miss" noun
Definitions
  1. The act of being remiss; inefficiency; failure. Obs. "Remisses of laws." Puttenham.

Webster 1913