ADRIFT Meaning and
Definition
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Adrift is an adjective that describes something or someone that is floating or drifting without control or direction. It is often used to describe an object or a person that is in a state of being carried along by the wind, waves, or current, without any means of propulsion or guidance.
In a literal sense, adrift refers to a ship or boat that is no longer attached to its moorings or anchor, and is consequently floating aimlessly on the water. This can occur due to a broken or lost anchor, or as a result of being abandoned. It can also apply to smaller objects such as buoys, rafts, or debris that is floating on the surface of the water without any purposeful movement.
Figuratively, adrift can describe a person who feels lost, uncertain, or without a clear sense of purpose in their life. This could be due to a lack of direction, feeling detached from their goals or ambitions, or feeling adrift in an unfamiliar or changing environment.
In essence, adrift refers to a state of being without direction or control, and can be applied to both physical objects and individuals. It conveys a sense of aimlessness, lack of purpose, or being at the mercy of external forces.
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Floating about at random; driven.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ADRIFT
Etymology of ADRIFT
The word "adrift" originated from Middle English, influenced by Old Norse. It stems from the combination of two words: "a-" and "drift".
The prefix "a-" in this context denotes a sense of lacking or absence. Hence, "a-" suggests being without or lacking something in relation to the word it is attached to.
The word "drift" comes from Old Norse and carries the meaning of being carried along aimlessly by wind or water currents. It refers to moving or floating freely without control or direction.
Therefore, the word "adrift" combines the prefix "a-" (without) and "drift" (moving aimlessly), resulting in the meaning of being without a fixed position, direction, or purpose, specifically in reference to something or someone being carried by wind or water.
Idioms with the word ADRIFT
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cast adrift
The idiom "cast adrift" means to abandon someone or something without any support or guidance. It refers to the act of setting someone or something loose or free to float away on their own, often leaving them vulnerable or isolated.
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be cut adrift
The idiom "be cut adrift" means to be abandoned, left alone, or dissociated from someone or something, often without any support or guidance. It refers to a state of being separated or detached, typically without any clear direction or purpose.
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cut adrift
The idiom "cut adrift" typically means to abandon or leave someone in a situation where they have no support or guidance. It refers to the act of setting someone or something loose or adrift, often with a sense of being abandoned or isolated.
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cast/set somebody adrift
The idiom "cast/set somebody adrift" means to abandon or leave someone in a helpless or unsupported situation, often with no means of assistance or guidance. It implies disregarding the person's well-being or leaving them to struggle on their own.
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cast someone adrift
The idiom "cast someone adrift" means to leave someone in a difficult or challenging situation without any support or guidance. It involves abandoning or isolating someone without any clear direction or assistance, making them fend for themselves.
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cast (or cut) someone adrift
The idiom "cast (or cut) someone adrift" means to abandon or forsake someone without any support or protection. It often implies leaving someone alone and without any guidance or help, as if they were abandoned at sea without a boat or means to survive.
Similar spelling words for ADRIFT
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