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Definition of waywardly

waywardly

/ˈweɪ.wɚd.li/
way · ward · ly
Adjective:wayward
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waywardly Lexical Profile

waywardly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner that is difficult to control, predict, or discipline; willfully, stubbornly, or erratically.

Example

"The young heir behaved waywardly throughout his twenties, ignoring the counsel of his family's advisors."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

wayside
waystation
wayward
waywardly
waywardness
wazoo
we

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the adjective 'wayward' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'. 'Wayward' comes from Middle English 'weiward', an aphetic shortening of 'aweiward' (turned away), combining 'away' with the directional suffix '-ward'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Waywardly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/waywardly
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