# wayward

> English word · Adjective · IPA /ˈweɪwə(ɹ)d/ · frequency rank #25,974

## Definitions
1. Given to a wilful, perverse deviation from the expected norm; tending to stray.
2. Obstinate, contrary and unpredictable.
3. Not on target.

## Etymology
Shortening of away + -ward.

## Easily confused with
- **Wayland** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/wayland-vs-wayward)

## Common misspellings (11)
`awyward`, `wawyard`, `wayawrd`, `waywadr`, `waywardd`, `waywarrd`, `waywrad`, `waywward`, `wayyward`, `wwayward`, `wyaward`

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/wayward