Wantonly

Part of speech: adverb

Pronunciation: /ˈwɒntənli/

Definitions

1. In a manner that is marked by excess or lack of restraint, often displaying disregard for moral standards or societal norms
2. Acting recklessly or immorally, often engaging in behavior that is careless and unprincipled
3. Doing something in a way that shows a lack of control or consideration for rules or consequences

Etymology: "Wanton" began as a compound of "wan," meaning "lacking," and "togen," the past participle of "teon," meaning "to draw" or "to bring up," so the original sense was roughly "ill-brought-up" or "undisciplined." Over the centuries the word drifted from describing a child who had been spoiled or left unchecked toward a broader sense of unrestrained behaviour, and from there to playful or careless indulgence. "Wantonly" is simply the adverb formed by adding "-ly" to "wanton," which in Middle English appeared in forms such as "wantounly" and "wantounliche." It describes doing something in that unrestrained, undisciplined manner, often with a sense of recklessness or disregard for what is proper or expected.

Synonyms: recklessly, carelessly, extravagantly, wastefully, indiscriminately

Antonyms: carefully, cautiously, thoughtfully, deliberately, judiciously