Strays Meaning and Definition
Strays
Pronunciation
/ˈstreɪz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
Wild or unwanted dogs or cats that have been abandoned or lost, often roaming the streets or countryside.
Examples
- The charity is dedicated to helping strays find new homes.
- Strays are often ignored by locals and cities struggle to manage their numbers.
Synonyms
- Abandoned animals
- Feral animals
Antonyms
- Pets
- Domesticated animals
Additional Information
Strays can spread diseases and harm local ecosystems. Many animal welfare organizations and shelters work to rescue and rehome strays. In some cities, strays are rounded up and euthanized, while in others, efforts are made to spay or neuter them to control their population.
Etymology
The word “stray” originally meant “to wander or roam freely”, and has been used to describe animals since the 14th century.
Usage Notes
When referring to strays, it’s common to use the phrase “street dogs” or “homeless pets”. In some contexts, “stray” may imply a temporary or intermittent situation, whereas “homeless” or “abandoned” convey a more permanent lack of a stable home.
Cultural References
In popular culture, strays have appeared in films like “Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey” and “Freaky Friday”, as well as in literature, such as in the novel “Watership Down” by Richard Adams.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Strays from the pack” is an idiom that refers to individuals who deviate from a group or organization.
Related Words or Phrases
Related words include “feral”, “abandoned”, “homeless”, and “wild”. Phrases like “street dog” or “homeless pet” are also related.
Collocations
Strays are often collocated with words like “charity”, “shelter”, “humane”, or “welfare”.
Frequency of Use
The word “stray” is commonly used in animal welfare and conservation contexts, and less frequently in everyday conversation.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings include “stares”, “strays”, and “straye”.