English Explanatory Dictionary

wayward

English dictionary entry

Meanings

adj
  1. Given to a wilful, perverse deviation from the expected norm; tending to stray.
  2. Obstinate, contrary and unpredictable.
  3. Not on target.
noun
  1. Someone, especially a young woman or girl, who is wayward.

Pronunciation

/ˈweɪwə(ɹ)d/ wā'wərd LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-wayward.wav

Word forms

wayward more wayward most wayward waywards

Etymology

Shortening of away + -ward.

Synonyms

vagabond vagrant adamant ardent grim bent on bloody-minded bullheaded certain chronic confirmed determined diehard dogged hard-hearted hard-nosed hardheaded headstrong immovable incalcitrant inflexible irrefragable insistent intractable intransigent intrepid inveterate mulish obdurate obstinate obstreperous peevish peremptory persistent pertinacious pigheaded recalcitrant refractory resolute resolved rigid self-willed stalwart staunch steadfast steady stubborn stubborn as a mule sullen tenacious terminal thran thwart tough truculent unbending uncompromising unyielding vehement wilful

Derived words

waywardly waywardness
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