Errant is an adjective that originated from the Old French word "errant," which means "traveling" or "wandering." It refers to something that deviates from the expected or correct course, way, or path. The term encompasses a wide range of concepts, including behavior, thoughts, actions, and objects.
Errant can describe a person who is wandering or straying from a prescribed path, be it a physical, metaphorical, or moral one. For instance, someone who is lost or roaming aimlessly would be considered errant. In a metaphorical sense, it can represent a person who is deviating from societal norms or failing to adhere to a set of rules or expectations.
Besides individuals, errant can also be applied to objects or things that have gone astray or moved away from their intended location. It can be used to describe a misplaced object or a projectile that misses its target.
Moreover, errant can refer to thoughts or actions that deviate from what is considered appropriate or logical. It can describe ideas or beliefs that are far from the truth or that contain mistakes or inaccuracies.
Overall, errant is a versatile term that encompasses various contexts, all involving a deviation from the intended course, path, or expectation.
