adrift

[uh-drift]

adjective

1. floating without control; drifting; not anchored or moored.

   The survivors were adrift in the rowboat for three days.

2. lacking aim, direction, or stability.

adrift

/ əˈdrɪft /

adjective

1. floating without steering or mooring; drifting

2. without purpose; aimless

3. informal,  off course or amiss

   the project went adrift

Word History and Origins

Origin of adrift¹

First recorded in 1615–25; a- ¹ + drift

Example Sentences

The Falcons, while entirely capable of laying an egg, are far more stable and reliable than the Dolphins, who mustered just six points against Cleveland last week and are adrift at sea.

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Former Southampton boss Martin was sacked with Rangers eighth in the league, nine points behind champions Celtic and two more adrift of leaders Heart of Midlothian.

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Martin was dismissed after 17 games on 5 October with Rangers eighth in the league, nine points behind champions Celtic and two more adrift of leaders Heart of Midlothian.

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The race was won by Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who closed in on both McLaren drivers in the championship - he is now 55 points behind Piastri and 33 adrift of Norris.

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While Fleetwood enjoyed serene progress on Friday, McIlroy was 10 shots adrift after mixing two birdies with three bogeys over the first 12 holes.

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Related Words

• afloat