NYT Dictionary

WAYWARD

/ˈweɪwə(ɹ)d/
AdjectiveNounWAY-wardway-ward · 2 syllablesCollege

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2026

Meaning

Given to a wilful, perverse deviation from the expected norm; tending to stray.

Etymology

Origin: Unknown

Shortening of away + -ward.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

adamantardentgrimuntiringbent onbloody-mindedbullheadedcertainchronicconfirmed

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 4 recorded puzzles:

Join the Spelling Bee Community

Get solving strategies, rare word lists, and puzzle tips in your inbox every week.