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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

The identity of her father is unknown, but she aches for her mother who, as a wayward teenager, quickly handed off newborn Annie to her grandmother before disappearing from their lives.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 27, 2026

In recent months, the King has been treading a balancing act in dealing with his wayward brother.

From BBC • Feb. 20, 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

Settlers arrived—mostly wayward souls and eccentrics who had meandered off the Oregon Trail.

From "Snow Falling on Cedars: A Novel" by David Guterson