waif

[weɪf]

waif Definition

  • 1a homeless and helpless person, especially a neglected or abandoned child
  • 2a stray animal

Using waif: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "waif" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The city is full of waifs and strays.

  • Example

    She was a waif who had been taken in by the church.

  • Example

    The shelter takes care of waif animals.

  • Example

    The little girl looked like a waif with her ragged clothes and unkempt hair.

waif Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with waif

  • a thin and fragile appearance, often associated with models

    Example

    The fashion industry has long celebrated the waif look, with models sporting skinny frames and minimal makeup.

  • waif and stray

    a person or thing that is homeless or without an owner

    Example

    The charity organization provides support for waifs and strays, including both people and animals.

  • waif-like

    having the appearance of a waif, typically thin and fragile

    Example

    Her waif-like figure made her stand out among the other models on the runway.

Origins of waif

from Old French 'guaif', meaning 'stray beast'

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Summary: waif in Brief

'Waif' [weɪf] refers to a homeless and helpless person, particularly a neglected or abandoned child, or a stray animal. It can also describe a thin and fragile appearance, as in 'waif look.' The term 'waif and stray' denotes a person or thing that is homeless or without an owner.

How do native speakers use this expression?