Strayer is a noun that refers to a person or an animal who strays or wanders away from a designated path, place or group. The word is derived from the verb "stray," which means to deviate from the correct or intended route, aim, or purpose. A strayer can be someone who loses their way due to a lack of direction or a deviation from the established norms or rules.
In human context, a strayer can be used to describe an individual who deviates from societal norms or expectations, often being perceived as an outsider or nonconformist. It can also refer to someone who becomes lost or disoriented, physically or metaphorically, from their intended destination or objective. For example, a strayer in an educational context could be a student who falls behind or fails to keep up with the curriculum, or someone who veers off their intended career path.
In animals, a strayer can be employed to describe a creature that has wandered away from its herd, pack, or home territory. It can occur due to natural instincts, curiosity, or simply getting lost. Strayers may encounter various difficulties and hazards as they navigate unfamiliar territory or face separation from their group.
Overall, the term "strayer" embodies the concept of deviating from the established path, literal or figurative, and can be used to describe both humans and animals that have ventured away from their intended course or group.
