Meaning & Definition of word "Wander"

Wander

/ˈwɒndər/

verb:

  • 1. to move about without a fixed course, aim, or goal
    • Example: He decided to wander through the park to clear his mind.
  • 2. to go away from a certain place, especially in a leisurely or aimless manner
    • Example: The children began to wander off while playing in the meadow.
  • 3. to deviate from a course or path
    • Example: She tends to wander from the main topic during discussions.
  • 4. to lose one's way or to be distracted from a purpose
    • Example: As I read, my thoughts started to wander off into unrelated topics.

Etymology

Middle English 'wanderen', from Old English 'wandrian', of uncertain origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

wander off:

to leave a place without informing anyone or without a purpose

wanderlust:

a strong desire to travel and explore the world

wandering mind:

a state of distraction, where one's thoughts are not focused

Related Words

drift:

to be carried slowly by a current of air or water

roam:

to move about or travel aimlessly or unsystematically

meander:

to follow a winding course or to wander aimlessly

Slang Meanings of wander

Meaning: to chill or hang out aimlessly

Example Sentence: We just wandered around the mall for hours.

Meaning: to get lost in thought or daydream

Example Sentence: I was wandering during the discussion and missed the point.