What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
orphan
Example
The orphan boy was taken in by his grandmother. [orphan: noun]
Example
She felt like an orphan after her parents disowned her. [orphan: adjective]
Example
The animal shelter took in an orphaned kitten. [orphaned: past participle]
waif
Example
The waif girl begged for food on the streets. [waif: noun]
Example
He looked like a waif after being lost in the woods for days. [waif: adjective]
Example
The animal rescue found a waif dog wandering on the highway. [waif: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Orphan is more commonly used than waif in everyday language, especially in formal contexts. Waif is less common and is more likely to be used in literature or poetic language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between orphan and waif?
Orphan is more formal than waif, as it is often used in legal documents or social services. Waif is more informal and is more likely to be used in creative writing or artistic expression.
