# straying

/ˈstɹeɪɪŋ/ (US) · /stɹˈeɪɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/straying
Updated: 2026-10-12

## Definition

to move away from the correct path or place by accident. You can also use it to describe losing focus on a topic while speaking or writing.

For teachers: to deviate from a direct course, a fixed location, or a specific subject of discussion. Often implies a lack of intention or a loss of concentration.

## Examples

- The sheep are straying away from the rest of the flock.
- The lecturer apologized for straying from the main topic and quickly returned to the lesson plan.
- While the hikers were initially confident, they soon realized they were straying into dangerous territory as the dense fog obscured the trail markers.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the preposition 'from' to indicate the original path or topic.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.