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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.

Analysts brushed off the chance the strike was a case of accidential targeting or some drones gone wayward.

From Barron's • Mar. 6, 2026

“It Lasts Forever and Then It’s Over” centers on a wayward traveler in a post-apocalyptic, decaying landscape.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 2, 2026

Could it be used for more than just a wayward puppy?

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 12, 2026

The Guardian called it "a wayward yet winning time-machine trip to the 90s" in a four-star review.

From BBC • Jan. 23, 2026

Yet, some curious, wayward motive urges him to supply the answer, for there is the feeling that his dignity as a living being is challenged by something within him that is not understood.

From "Native Son" by Richard Wright