Definition & Meaning of "stray"

to stray

VERB

to move aimlessly or wander without a specific goal or destination

Intransitive: to stray somewhere

Example

The cat strayed through the neighborhood, exploring different gardens and alleys.

The children strayed around the park, chasing butterflies and playing games.

Without a set agenda, the tourists strayed through the bustling market, sampling local delicacies.

to wander off or deviate from the intended or established path

Intransitive: to stray | to stray from a path

Example

The lost hiker accidentally strayed into a dense thicket, veering off the established path.

The sheep tend to stray if not carefully herded.

During the nature hike, the children were warned not to stray too far from the designated trail.

to lose focus or deviate from the main subject or discussion

Intransitive: to stray from a subject | to stray into a subject

Example

The team meeting occasionally strayed into personal anecdotes, deviating from the agenda.

The seminar leader encouraged participants not to stray into unrelated discussions during the workshop.

The intense emotions caused the conversation to stray from a rational discussion to a heated argument.

stray

ADJECTIVE

not close together in time

(with reference to an animal) lost or wandered away from its home or natural habitat

Stray

NOUN

a domestic animal that is lost, abandoned or wandering without an owner

What is "stray"?

The term "stray" is commonly used to refer to domestic animals, such as dogs or cats, that are found wandering without any apparent owner. These animals may have escaped from their homes or been abandoned by their owners. Stray animals can be found in urban and rural areas and can pose various challenges to the communities they inhabit. They may cause accidents, spread diseases, damage property, or create nuisance by making noise. Stray animals are often picked up by animal control agencies or shelters, and efforts are made to reunite them with their owners or find them new homes through adoption. In some cases, however, if an animal is not claimed or adopted, it may be euthanized.

Example