astray

adverb or adjective

1
: off the right path or route : straying
2
: in error : away from what is proper or desirable

Examples of astray in a Sentence

I think we were led astray by the unfortunate similarity of the two names
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Spot patterns in your thinking that might be leading you astray. Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025 Reichardt makes their lives look exhausting, conveying the high stakes that play into every decision and the panic that sets in when those decisions seem to be leading everyone astray. Keith Phipps, Vulture, 18 July 2025 Saint Benedict comes down from the others and tells you how his followers, too, have gone astray. Mary Jo Bang july 9, Literary Hub, 9 July 2025 Its hushed and chipper but ailing singles drew backlash; some challenged the writer’s agency, insinuating that Jack Antonoff, who co-produced the album, led her astray. Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 27 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for astray

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French estraié wandering, from estraier to stray — more at stray

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of astray was in the 13th century

Cite this Entry

“Astray.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/astray. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

astray

adverb or adjective
1
: off the right path or route
2
: in or into error

More from Merriam-Webster on astray

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!