STRAY Synonyms: 93 Similar and Opposite Words

stray 1 of 2

adjective

as in random

lacking a definite plan, purpose, or pattern stray sightings of UFO's, none of which have been rigorously analyzed by scientists

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

stray

2 of 2

verb

as in to trespass

to commit an offense our straying son swears he's returned to the straight and narrow

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of stray

Adjective

Animal Control began receiving reports during the first week of June about an aggressive stray cat roaming the Glen Road area, according to a statement by the Polk County Sheriff's Office. —

Paloma Chavez, PEOPLE, 16 June 2026 The number of stray dog reports has declined in recent years. —

Jasmine Arenas, CBS News, 12 June 2026

Verb

Over the decades the O’odham placed some barbed wire along the border to keep livestock from straying into the neighboring country, limiting the spread of maladies such as foot-and-mouth disease and hindering cattle thieves. —

Geraldo L. Cadava, The Atlantic, 20 June 2026 Healthy, stray cats that are picked up and brought to the shelter will be turned away. —

Eva Flowe june 18, Charlotte Observer, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for stray

Recent Examples of Synonyms for stray

Adjective

There’s a growing movement to bring back small rituals, like lighting candles, using cloth napkins, pulling out the good china on a random weeknight, and saying a toast before the first bite.

— Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 18 June 2026
Candles, cloth napkins, the good china on a random Wednesday, a quick toast before the first bite.

— Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 18 June 2026