stray
verb (used without object)
to deviate from the direct course, leave the proper place, or go beyond the proper limits, especially without a fixed course or purpose.
had strayed
-
past perfectof stray.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Vinicius was denied a hat-trick by the linesman's flag as he used his shoulder to convert Arda Guler's crossed free-kick but had strayed just offside.
From Barron's ● Feb. 14, 2026
In a statement on Friday, Eritrea's foreign ministry said Igad had strayed from its founding principles and failed to contribute to regional stability.
From BBC ● Dec. 12, 2025
Instead, Enrique Hernández charged in, caught the ball and fired to second base to double off Addison Barger, who had strayed too far from the bag.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 1, 2025
Then they won the game on a mind-bending double-play in which Kiké Hernández caught a line drive in left and threw out a runner who had strayed too far from second base.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 31, 2025
If the press got wind of the Cambodian sorties, he could claim American planes had strayed accidentally over the border.
From "Boots on the Ground: America's War in Vietnam" by Elizabeth Partridge
