Pronunciation: [wˈe͡ɪwəd] (IPA) 
The word "wayward" is spelled with a "w" at the beginning, followed by an "a," which is pronounced like the "a" in "cat" (æ). The "y" is pronounced like the "i" in "bit" (ɪ), and the "w" is pronounced a second time, like the beginning of the word "world" (w). The "a" is pronounced like the "a" in "cat" (æ), and the "r" is pronounced with a slight trill at the end (r̥). This results in the phonetic transcription /ˈweɪ.wərd/.
Wayward is an adjective that refers to a person or their behavior being difficult to control or predict, straying from a desired or expected path. It describes a person who acts in a willful, stubborn, or unpredictable manner, often disregarding authority or conventional rules. Alternatively, it can also refer to something that goes against what is considered acceptable or right.
When used to describe an individual, a wayward person is frequently characterized by their inclination to deviate from norms or expectations. Such individuals might exhibit erratic or inconsistent conduct, making it challenging to influence or guide them. They might display traits of rebellion, impulsiveness, or defiance, often resisting and disagreeing with others, even when it goes against their own self-interest. Despite the presence of rules or guidance, a wayward person may choose to forge their own path, often with little regard for the consequences.
Furthermore, wayward can also be used to describe actions, situations, or events that are considered unconventional, troublesome, or even inappropriate. It suggests a deviation from the expected course, straying into unfamiliar or undesirable territory. In these contexts, the term highlights a departure from the standard or anticipated course of action, conveying a sense of errancy or unpredictability.
Overall, the term wayward portrays individuals or actions that exhibit a tendency to deviate from what is considered normal, expected, or desirable. It encapsulates notions of unpredictability, defiance, and a refusal to conform, whether in reference to personal behavior or broader circumstances.
Bent on one's own way; wickedly froward; perverse; wilful.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "wayward" has Old English origins. It is derived from the combination of two words: "way" and "weard".
The term "way" can be traced back to the Old English word "weg", which denoted a path, road, or route.
The word "weard" is derived from the Old English "weardian", meaning to guard or watch over something.
When these two words merged, "wayward" was formed. Originally, it meant "turned or facing in the wrong direction" or "changing direction". Over time, its meaning evolved to refer to someone who is resistant to guidance or who behaves unexpectedly or defiantly.
