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.
Swinney said Hamilton was straying into "incredibly inappropriate territory" and denied trying to sweep the story under the carpet.
From BBC ● May 26, 2026
The first was straying from the subject for almost half his speech.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 4, 2026
Some Southwest customers expressed disappointment that the company was straying from features that once defined the brand.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 11, 2025
He left for the first time in 2000, returned as CEO in 2008 after realizing the company was straying from the original Starbucks brand, and left again nine years later.
From Seattle Times ● Mar. 28, 2023
Neville's attention was straying to Grandmama, who was coming slowly towards them down the path, leaning on her stick, so she did not see Mrs. Hilary's curious, lit eagerness.
From Dangerous Ages by Dame Rose Macaulay
