Strayer

A 'strayer' is a person or animal that has wandered from a designated path, group, or home and become lost or separated. This noun encapsulates the state of being disoriented, off-course, or without a proper guide or belonging. The term can describe physical displacement, as well as metaphorical separation from moral, social, or intellectual norms. Often, the word evokes a sense of vulnerability, loneliness, and the potential for danger or hardship associated with being lost and disconnected. The context of 'strayer' could involve geographical separation or the disruption of relationships or community. The degree of this separation is implied in the word.

Strayer meaning with examples

• The lost puppy, a tiny strayer, whimpered softly as it explored the unfamiliar city streets. Without its family, it looked small and vulnerable. Despite the kind strangers offering help, its confusion was obvious. Eventually, the puppy was collected by animal control, and its owner eventually found their much-missed pet. The owner, overwhelmed with joy, could not help but hug the puppy and promise to always look after it.
• During the storm, the refugees were separated from their group. The storm caused utter pandemonium, scattering them everywhere. One young woman, a strayer, huddled under a crumbling wall, shivering with cold and fear. The authorities found her a day later and reunited her with her family. The experience left her traumatized, emphasizing the fragility of human connections during times of disaster.
• The young artist, a creative strayer, felt alienated from the traditional art scene, preferring to express themselves in ways the established art world could not. They tried to find others, but the groups they found were very small, so they went it alone. Though they continued alone, they persevered and eventually found a larger following on social media. This experience highlighted the challenges of following an unconventional path.
• After the political scandal, the once-respected politician became a social strayer, shunned by former colleagues and admirers. They lost their standing, their income, and their social standing, becoming very depressed. They had to go to court many times and spend a large amount of money on lawyers. The consequences showed how swiftly a person's reputation and social standing can be lost.