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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.

“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

Archer, who also struggled against Nepal on Sunday, was wayward with his lines.

From BBC • Feb. 11, 2026

Despite winning the Champions League in 2021, Werner endured a difficult stint at Stamford Bridge and was often criticised for his wayward finishing.

From Barron's • Jan. 29, 2026

Our eyes are peeled for bears, lynxes, wayward hunters—any creature that might call the mountains home.

From "An Ember in the Ashes" by Sabaa Tahir

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.