What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
waif
Example
The waif was found wandering the streets alone. [waif: noun]
Example
She had a waif-like appearance with her thin frame and delicate features. [waif-like: adjective]
stray
Example
The stray dog was taken in by a kind-hearted family. [stray: noun]
Example
He felt like a stray, lost and unsure of where he was going. [stray: adjective]
Example
I found a stray sock under the bed. [stray: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stray is more commonly used than waif in everyday language. Stray is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while waif is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between waif and stray?
Both waif and stray are relatively informal words, but waif may be considered slightly more formal due to its archaic origins and less common usage.
