Meaning:
- “Wanton” is an adjective with several related meanings, depending on the context in which it is used:
- Deliberately Cruel or Malicious: When describing a person’s behavior, “wanton” means showing a deliberate and unprovoked lack of kindness or cruelty. It implies a sense of recklessness and disregard for the consequences of one’s actions.
- Sexually Immodest or Promiscuous: In a different context, “wanton” can describe someone who engages in sexual immodesty or promiscuity without restraint.
- Lavish or Extravagant: In another context, “wanton” can mean lavish, extravagant, or unrestrained, often with respect to spending money or using resources without care.
Synonyms:
- Cruel Behavior:
- Malicious
- Cruel
- Unprovoked
- Vicious
- Malevolent
- Inhuman
- Heartless
- Ruthless
- Sexual Immodesty:
- Promiscuous
- Lewd
- Licentious
- Immodest
- Dissolute
- Loose
- Indecent
- Wanton (in the context of sexuality)
- Lavish or Extravagant:
- Extravagant
- Profligate
- Wasteful
- Immoderate
- Excessive
- Unrestrained
- Prodigious
- Lavish (in the context of spending)
Antonyms:
- Cruel Behavior:
- Kind
- Compassionate
- Benevolent
- Merciful
- Considerate
- Thoughtful
- Gentle
- Humanitarian
- Sexual Immodesty:
- Chaste
- Modest
- Virtuous
- Decent
- Prudish
- Reserved
- Respectable
- Lavish or Extravagant:
- Thrifty
- Frugal
- Economical
- Prudent
- Judicious
- Moderate
- Cautious
- Sparing
The meaning of “wanton” varies based on the specific context in which it is used, but it generally conveys a sense of recklessness, lack of restraint, or cruelty, depending on the context.