Adjective

No artist should be subjected to this much wanton affection: it's unseemly, like being hugged by a stranger who won't let go. — James Wolcott , New Republic ,

I also wrote that innocent people would die as a consequence of the wanton , lawless destruction of medical stocks in a dirt-poor country. — Christopher Hitchens , Nation ,

While I was happy to find Mr. Pollan firmly allied with those of us who oppose the wanton broadcast of pesticides and inorganic fertilizers on lawn and garden, I wish he had lingered a little longer over this vital subject. — Maxine Kumin , New York Times Book Review ,

Vandals were guilty of the wanton destruction of the school property.

They were accused of wanton cruelty toward animals.

He showed a wanton disregard for his friend's feelings.

a life of wanton luxury

Noun

He practiced the anathema he would hurl at her from his pulpit when her shame was known—hussy, slut, harlot and wanton featured heavily … — James A. Michener , Texas ,

During the middle years of their marriage … his campaign to free his bride so that she could become a wanton had languished. — Andrew M. Greeley , Ascent into Hell ,

My informal education had begun the afternoon in Belleville Park when I discovered that girls were wantons willing to sneak away to shaded glades to be kissed. — Russell Baker , Growing Up ,

Verb

It might well be, said Mrs McNab, wantoning on with her memories; they had friends in eastern countries; gentlemen staying there, ladies in evening dress; she had seen them once through the dining-room door all sitting at dinner. — Virginia Woolf , To the Lighthouse ,