Wander

/ˈwɒndər/

Meaning & Definition

verb
to move about without a fixed course, aim, or goal
He decided to wander through the park to clear his mind.
to go away from a certain place, especially in a leisurely or aimless manner
The children began to wander off while playing in the meadow.
to deviate from a course or path
She tends to wander from the main topic during discussions.
to lose one's way or to be distracted from a purpose
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

to chill or hang out aimlessly
We just wandered around the mall for hours.
to get lost in thought or daydream
I was wandering during the discussion and missed the point.