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Definition of waywardness

waywardness

/ˈweɪ.wɚd.nəs/
way · ward · ness
Adverb:waywardly
•
Adjective:wayward
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waywardness Lexical Profile

waywardness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of being difficult to control, headstrong, or stubbornly resistant to authority and guidance.

Example

"The novel traces a young artist's youthful waywardness before he eventually finds discipline in his craft."

2

Tendency to behave or move in an erratic, unpredictable, or irregular manner.

Example

"Experienced sailors learned to respect the sudden waywardness of the autumn winds along the coast."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

waystation
wayward
waywardly
waywardness
wazoo
we
weak

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from 'wayward', originally a shortened variant of 'awayward' (turned away), combined with the noun-forming suffix '-ness'.

Cite this Entry

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