© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

wantonness

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈwɒntənnəs/

KK: /ˈwɔntənnəs/

noun
Definition

The quality of being reckless or unrestrained, often in a way that is excessive or immoral.


Example

The wantonness of his actions shocked everyone at the party.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that movie last night?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was wild! I couldn't believe the level of wantonness in some scenes.
Sloth A
Right? It was like they were trying to push every boundary.
Sloth B
Totally! It definitely made for an interesting watch.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
licentiousness
lewdness
debauchery
Antonyms
restraint
modesty
decency
Root Explanation

**Wantonness** → It is formed from "wanton" (from Old English *wænten*, meaning to be wanton or unrestrained) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "wantonness" refers to the state of being unrestrained or excessive, often in a playful or immoral manner.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'wanton' which means unrestrained or excessive, and remember that 'wantonness' describes the quality of being unrestrained.

Visually Confused Words
atoneness
wanness
Is this page helpful?