saunter

[sawn-ter, sahn-]

verb (used without object)

1. to walk with a leisurely gait; stroll.

   sauntering through the woods.

   Synonyms: meander, ramble, amble

noun

1. a leisurely walk or ramble; stroll.

   Synonyms: meander, ramble, amble

2. a leisurely gait.

   Synonyms: meander, ramble, amble

saunter

/ ˈsɔːntə /

verb

1. to walk in a casual manner; stroll

noun

1. a leisurely pace or stroll

2. a leisurely old-time dance

Other Word Forms

• saunterer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of saunter¹

First recorded in 1660–70; of uncertain origin

Word History and Origins

Origin of saunter¹

C17 (meaning: to wander aimlessly), C15 (to muse): of obscure origin

Example Sentences

My eyes go to Autumn’s hiding spot, but Tano turns and saunters in that direction.

Read more on Literature

He ambled, he strolled, he sauntered, and seemed in no rush to get to his destination.

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Sure, no one is stopping anyone from sauntering into their local grocery store dressed to the nines in faux fur and pumps.

Read more on Salon

Armed agents have sauntered through downtown and manned a flotilla of boats on the Chicago River.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

I’ve felt my heart stop, swearing I caught a glimpse of my long-dead cat saunter by, out of the corner of my eye.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• amble 
• loiter 
• meander 
• mope 
• mosey 
• ramble 
• roam 
• sashay 
• toddle 
• traipse 
• wander