Wantonness

Wantonness is characterized by deliberate and unprovoked cruelty, maliciousness, or recklessness. It signifies a disregard for the well-being, rights, or feelings of others, often manifesting in gratuitous violence, destruction, or immoral behavior. This behavior stems from a lack of control, self-restraint, or moral compass, driven by personal desires, impulses, or a disregard for consequences. It differs from behavior motivated by understandable passions or necessities. Wantonness is a state of being, a character trait, or a type of action that expresses a lack of restraint and disregard for standards, norms, or principles. It implies a level of indifference to the impact of one's actions on the lives of others.

Wantonness meaning with examples

• The dictator's reign was marked by wantonness; his orders to demolish villages and execute dissidents were carried out without remorse. His followers engaged in the wanton destruction of cultural artifacts and symbols of resistance, motivated by a desire to subjugate the population through fear and intimidation. This wanton behavior was not born out of necessity or strategic military aims, but from a deliberate, sadistic pursuit of power and control over others.
• The novel depicted the villain's descent into Wantonness as he reveled in the suffering of his victims. He derived pleasure from inflicting pain, both physical and emotional, demonstrating a complete lack of empathy. His actions were a manifestation of unchecked power and a twisted sense of superiority. His Wantonness was evident in his disregard for any form of moral or ethical boundary. His actions resulted in the complete devastation of his victims lives.
• The news reported on the arson attacks across the city, depicting the Wantonness of the act. The perpetrators, fueled by rage and a lack of concern for the potential harm they caused, set multiple buildings ablaze. Their Wantonness disregarded the lives of residents, firefighters, and even their own safety. The severity of the acts was further amplified by the fact that the arson was driven purely by spite, with no apparent logical motive or gain.
• The judge found the defendant guilty of Wantonness, particularly in regard to a string of hate crimes. The defendant demonstrated a persistent pattern of violence and prejudice toward marginalized groups. His Wantonness was evident in his repeated use of offensive language and his blatant disregard for the dignity and safety of the victims. The evidence suggested that the defendant's actions were not motivated by personal grievances, but by a deep-seated hatred.