stray

UK: streɪ | US: streɪ

Definition

  1. v. to wander away from a set path or place

  2. adj. lost or separated from a group

  3. n. a lost or homeless animal

Structure
stra <wander>y <adjective/noun suffix>stra <wander>y <suffix>
Etymology

The word "stray" traces back to the idea of "wandering outside bounds." Its Old French root estraier evolved from Latin extravagare (literally "to wander beyond"), combining extra (outside) + vagari (to wander). Over time, it narrowed to describe lost animals or people deviating from a path.

Examples

  1. The dog began to stray from its owner during the walk.

  2. A stray cat has been living in our backyard for weeks.

  3. Tourists often stray into restricted areas by accident.

  4. She felt like a stray in the unfamiliar city.

  5. The farmer rounded up the stray sheep before nightfall.