Wayward

/ˈweɪwə(ɹ)d/ · adjective

Meaning

Given to a wilful, perverse deviation from the expected norm; tending to stray..

Definitions by Sense

1. Given to a wilful, perverse deviation from the expected norm; tending to stray.
2. Obstinate, contrary and unpredictable.
3. (sports) Not on target.
4. (dated) Someone, especially a young woman or girl, who is wayward.

Example Sentences

He is a brilliant fellow when he chooses to work—one of the brightest intellects of the University, but he is wayward, dissipated, and unprincipled.

Fancies are like shadows . . . you can’t cage them, they’re such wayward, dancing things.

The Ig Nobel awards are arguably the highlight of the scientific calendar. The prizes, which are the wayward son of the more righteous Nobels, are supposed to reward research that makes people laugh, then think.

Bulgaria's only attacking weapon was the wayward shooting of Martin Petrov, whereas England's attacking options were awash with movement in the shape of Rooney, Young and Walcott.

the wild, half-starved youth whom we style incorrigibles, delinquents, and waywards

The girls classed as first offenders and waywards gave a higher intelligence quotient than the others.

What is "Christian rock?" It has been called everything from Jesus music to righteous rock to the devil's handiwork (the church can't sit idly by and let some waywards peddle "jungle music" in the name of the Lord without casting a little brimstone).

Disobedience and waywardism laws were pioneered on young women, and could be arrested as a disobedient or wayward at the age of 20.

Synonyms for wayward

Antonyms for wayward

Related Words

Word Forms

• more wayward
• most wayward
• waywards

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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