Waylay definitions
| Word backwards | yalyaw |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Waylay is a verb. |
| Syllabic division | The syllable separation of the word "waylay" is way-lay. |
| Plural | The plural of "waylay" is "waylays." |
| Total letters | 6 |
| Vogais (1) | a |
| Consonants (3) | w,y,l |
When someone is waylaid, they are ambushed or intercepted unexpectedly. This term is often used to describe someone being stopped or delayed on their journey by force or deception.
Origin of Waylay
The word "waylay" has origins in the Old English word "wæglian," which means to lie in wait for or ambush. It first appeared in the English language around the 16th century.
Usage of Waylay in Literature
Authors often use the term "waylay" to add suspense or tension to a story. Characters may be waylaid by enemies, robbers, or other obstacles, leading to unexpected plot twists and developments.
Waylaying can also be used as a metaphorical term, such as being emotionally waylaid by news or events that catch us off guard and leave us feeling disoriented or overwhelmed.
Examples of Waylaying
Imagine a traveler on a lonely road being waylaid by bandits, or a student on their way to an exam being waylaid by a sudden downpour. These scenarios illustrate the unexpected nature of being waylaid and the challenges it can present.
It's essential to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid being waylaid, both in a physical and metaphorical sense. By staying alert and prepared, you can navigate through life's challenges more effectively.
Waylay Examples
- The bandits planned to waylay the travelers on the lonely road.
- I was waylaid by a group of enthusiastic salespeople at the mall.
- The politician was waylaid by reporters as he left the courthouse.
- The detective suspected foul play when the victim was waylaid in the alley.
- The unexpected rainstorm waylaid our plans for a picnic in the park.
- The teacher was waylaid by students with questions after class.
- The delivery driver was waylaid by traffic on his route.
- The hikers were waylaid by a fallen tree blocking the trail.
- The project manager was waylaid by a last-minute change in the requirements.
- The celebrity tried to avoid being waylaid by paparazzi outside the restaurant.