Definitions

wayward

[wey-werd] / ˈweɪ wərd /

ADJECTIVE

contrary, unmanageable

Synonyms

STRONGEST

capricious delinquent errant erratic headstrong rebellious recalcitrant unruly

WEAK

aberrant arbitrary balky changeable contumacious cross-grained disobedient disorderly fickle flighty fractious froward immoral inconstant incorrigible insubordinate intractable mulish obdurate obstinate ornery perverse refractory restive self-indulgent self-willed stubborn uncompliant undependable ungovernable unpredictable unstable variable whimsical willful

Antonyms

STRONGEST

compliant dependable obedient steady

WEAK

controllable manageable

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Soon after, cardholders complained on social media about problems including delayed rent payments, wayward charges and trouble reaching customer service.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

Starring Nicholas Galitzine as a wayward Prince Adam trapped on Earth, “Masters of the Universe” adds a contemporary twist and some modern sensibilities to the lore.

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2026

How long will the wayward cruise ship passengers stay in Omaha?

From Slate • May 14, 2026

Young, who won last week's Cadillac Championship, had his only dropped shot at 18, where a wayward tee shot proved costly.

From BBC • May 10, 2026

She felt so relieved to see the wayward chicken again that she put her hand out enthusiastically to shake the boy’s free hand.

From "Habibi" by Naomi Shihab Nye

Vocabulary lists containing wayward

Romeo and Juliet

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Spinnin' Around

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The One and Only Ivan

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