wanton Definition
- 1deliberate and unprovoked
- 2sexually immodest or promiscuous
- 3a woman who is sexually immoral or licentious
Using wanton: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "wanton" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He showed a wanton disregard for other people's feelings.
Example
The soldiers' wanton destruction of the village was condemned by the international community.
Example
She was accused of leading a wanton lifestyle.
Example
The novel was criticized for its wanton depiction of sexual acts.
wanton Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for wanton
- unjustified
- unwarranted
- immoral
- lewd
- uncalled-for
- promiscuous
- licentious
Phrases with wanton
Example
The wanton cruelty of the dictator shocked the world.
Example
The novel portrays the protagonist as a wanton woman who has affairs with multiple men.
wanton destruction
destruction that is deliberate and unprovoked
Example
The wanton destruction of the ancient temple was a tragedy for the local community.
Origins of wanton
from Old English 'wantōn', meaning 'unruly'
Summary: wanton in Brief
The term 'wanton' [ˈwɒntən] describes actions that are deliberate and unprovoked, often with negative connotations. It can refer to cruelty, destruction, or sexual immodesty, as in 'The soldiers' wanton destruction of the village was condemned by the international community.' 'Wanton' extends into phrases like 'wanton cruelty,' and refers to a 'wanton woman,' who is sexually immoral or licentious.
