Crossword Genius

Delinquent, one that's sadly dropped out (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tearaway

'delinquent' is the definition.
(both can mean a naughty child)

'one that's sadly dropped out' is the wordplay.
'one that's sadly dropped' becomes 'tear' (teardrops are released when someone is sad).
'out' becomes 'away' (synonyms).
'tear'+'away'='TEARAWAY'

(Other definitions for tearaway that I've seen before include "rebel" , "Reckless and impetuous person" , "A tough" , "Yob" , "Reckless violent person" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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