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.
was straying
-
past progressiveof stray.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
The first was straying from the subject for almost half his speech.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 4, 2026
That changed in 2008 when, faced with fast-rising inflation, soaring food and fuel prices, and a higher minimum wage, 99 Cents Only announced that it was straying from its long-standing price strategy.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 4, 2024
He was straying off a well-worn path to the top.
From BBC ● Apr. 12, 2022
When I began “stir-frying” like this, I knew I was straying from tradition.
From New York Times ● Oct. 15, 2021
A pert little wave by the sea-shore one day, Came dashing along in its impudent way; A wee little maiden was straying too near.
From Golden Moments Bright Stories for Young Folks by Anonymous
