Wantoning

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. The behavior characterized by unrestrained pleasure-seeking denotes a disregard for societal norms and ethical boundaries
2. Engaging in actions that reflect a rampant pursuit of sensual or trivial delights illustrates an abandonment of moderation and morality
3. The act of indulging in frivolous pleasures without restraint signifies a blatant defiance of both ethical standards and social conventions

Etymology: The verb "wanton" once described a child who had never been taught manners. In Middle English, "wantoun" and its variants combined "wan-", meaning "not" or "un-", with a past participle of "tēon", an Old English verb meaning "to train" or "discipline." The literal sense was "untrained" or "unbrought-up," and the word could describe anyone unrestrained, licentious, or simply playful. Its meaning of excessive or reckless indulgence grew out of that sense of lacking discipline. The verb form "wantoning" therefore carries that old idea of conduct left unchecked. A separate word, borrowed from Cantonese "wan tan" (the dumpling), shares the spelling but has no connection to the sense of unrestrained behaviour.

Synonyms: frolicking, romping, playing, reveling, larking