wanton
UK: ˈwɒntən | US: ˈwɑːntən
adj. 1. (of a person or behavior) deliberate and unprovoked; reckless or malicious.
adj. 2. sexually unrestrained or promiscuous.
adj. 3. (archaic) luxuriant or excessive in growth (e.g., vegetation).
Originally in Middle English (wantowen), the term described someone "undisciplined" or "unrestrained," combining wan- (lack) + togen (trained). Over time, it evolved to emphasize moral or behavioral recklessness, later narrowing to sexual promiscuity. The archaic sense of "excessive growth" reflects uncontrolled natural abundance.
The dictator’s wanton destruction of villages shocked the world.
She was criticized for her wanton disregard for rules.
The novel’s protagonist led a wanton lifestyle in his youth.
(Archaic) The garden was overgrown with wanton vines.
His wanton cruelty made him feared by all.