Word: Wayward
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: The word "wayward" describes someone or something that is difficult to control or predict because they behave in an unpredictable or rebellious way. It often implies that the person is resistant to guidance or discipline.
Usage Instructions: You can use "wayward" to describe people, especially children or teenagers, who do not follow rules or behave in expected ways. It can also describe things that are not following a set path or plan.
Examples: 1. The wayward child refused to listen to his parents and often ran away from home. 2. Her wayward decisions led her to travel the world instead of going to college.
Advanced Usage: In literature, "wayward" can often describe characters who struggle against societal norms or expectations. For example: - “The protagonist’s wayward spirit drove her to explore uncharted territories, disregarding the advice of her elders.”
Word Variants: - Waywardness (noun): The quality of being wayward. Example: His waywardness caused many problems at school. - Waywardly (adverb): In a way that is difficult to control or predict. Example: She acted waywardly, changing her mind about the project multiple times.
Different Meaning: In a more general sense, "wayward" can also refer to things that are erratic or straying from the intended course, like a wayward breeze that blows in unexpected directions.
Synonyms: - Unruly - Disobedient - Willful - Headstrong - Errant
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:While "wayward" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly associated with it, you might hear phrases like "a wayward path" which means a path that is not straightforward or is difficult to follow.
In Summary: "Wayward" is an adjective used to describe someone or something that is unpredictable and resistant to control.