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.

That’s especially true of the demographic of women who watch the network, who are also the prime audience for Hallmark movies about wayward daughters returning home to marry the boy next door.

From Salon • Apr. 13, 2026

Such has been Woods' standing in the game, his influence has grown with seniority despite a history of wayward driving stretching back almost two decades.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 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

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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