Definitions

waylaid

[wey-leyd, wey-leyd] / ˈweɪˌleɪd, weɪˈleɪd /

VERB

intercept, ambush

Synonyms

STRONGEST

accost

STRONG

ambuscade assail attack box bushwhack catch jump lurk prowl skulk slink surprise

WEAK

hold up lay for lie in wait pounce on set upon swoop down on

Antonyms

WEAK

allow forward

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.

The casual reader may be waylaid by Mr. Klosterman’s argumentativeness and heady references.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 6, 2026

The Ukrainians descended the steps, to be met with a low-key American greeting, and with their optimism, like a piece of waylaid luggage, lost somewhere en route.

From BBC • Oct. 18, 2025

And though it’s much easier now to find books and other media taking a range of perspectives on menopause, it’s also easy to be waylaid by influencers, charlatans and factionalism.

From Salon • Sep. 22, 2025

Like Ken Griffey Jr. before him, Trout’s mid-career injury problems have waylaid a meteoric career and stalled his historic rate of production at the plate.

From Seattle Times • May 1, 2024

Three charming girls from the Bureaux of Propaganda by Synthetic Voice waylaid him as he stepped out of the lift.

From "Brave New World" by Aldous Huxley