Wantonly describes an action performed deliberately and without regard for the rights, feelings, or safety of others; it implies recklessness, maliciousness, and often a disregard for consequence. This term is frequently applied to acts of destruction, violence, or disregard for rules or decorum. It suggests an unnecessary and excessive degree of harmfulness, and a lack of any legitimate justification beyond the perpetrator's selfish desires or enjoyment of causing harm. The term highlights a lack of constraint or moral control guiding the action; it contrasts sharply with actions motivated by necessity, compassion, or good intentions. The implication is that the harm is done gratuitously, and that the actor took pleasure from inflicting the harm.
Wantonly meaning with examples
- The vandals wantonly destroyed the historical monument, leaving a scene of devastation and provoking public outrage. Their actions demonstrated a complete disrespect for history and a callous disregard for the community's heritage. The police are currently seeking those responsible, and the town's residents have expressed their hope the people who did this are caught and the area is restored.
- The dictator's forces wantonly targeted civilian populations during the conflict. The attacks included schools and hospitals. The international community condemned these actions as war crimes, as the deliberate targeting of innocents and the destruction of infrastructure. The international court is working on gathering evidence to try those responsible.
- The corporation was accused of wantonly polluting the river, disregarding environmental regulations for short-term profit. This resulted in devastating effects on local wildlife and the health of nearby communities. Investigations led to substantial fines and public censure, with the company facing further lawsuits, including those for emotional damages.
- The spoiled child wantonly broke his expensive toys because he didn't like them anymore. His parents attempted to reprimand the child, but he just went into another room. His attitude of disrespect left everyone in the family frustrated, emphasizing his lack of understanding about the value of things and consequences for actions.
- The computer virus wantonly deleted valuable files from the system, causing significant data loss for countless users. The software company that sent the virus has gone bankrupt and is facing legal action. The act was a deliberate act of digital sabotage that the public did not agree with.
Wantonly Synonyms
callously gratuitously maliciously mindlessly recklessly shamelessly spitefully unnecessarilyWantonly Antonyms
carefully compassionately considerately justly purposefully responsibly thoughtfullyWantonly Crossword Answers
12 Letters
LICENTIOUSLY
13 Letters
PROMISCUOUSLY