Waylayer: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ก๏ธ
waylayer
[ หweษชหleษช.ษr ]
route blocker
A waylayer is an individual who blocks or obstructs a pathway or route, often with the intention of ambushing travelers. This term historically refers to those who would waylay unsuspecting individuals for robbery or harm. The practice of waylaying often occurred in remote or perilous locations, adding a sense of danger to travel. Although more common in historical contexts, the concept can still apply in modern narratives, such as in literature and film.
Synonyms
ambusher, bandit, mugger, robber
Examples of usage
- The waylayer ambushed the travelers on the deserted road.
- Travelers were warned of the notorious waylayer lurking in the woods.
- The story told of a waylayer who was finally brought to justice.
Translations
Translations of the word "waylayer" in other languages:
๐ต๐น caminho
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฎเคพเคฐเฅเค
๐ฉ๐ช Wegschicht
๐ฎ๐ฉ jalur
๐บ๐ฆ ัะปัั
๐ต๐ฑ ลcieลผka
๐ฏ๐ต ้ใฎใ
๐ซ๐ท chemin
๐ช๐ธ camino
๐น๐ท yol
๐ฐ๐ท ๊ธธ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุทุฑูู
๐จ๐ฟ cesta
๐ธ๐ฐ cesta
๐จ๐ณ ้่ทฏ
๐ธ๐ฎ pot
๐ฎ๐ธ leiรฐ
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะถะพะป
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ yol
๐ฒ๐ฝ camino
Etymology
The term 'waylayer' derives from the Old English word 'waeg' meaning 'way' combined with 'lay' from 'layen', which means to lay in wait. Historically, it described those who would lie in wait along roads and pathways to accost travelers. The practice of waylaying is prominent in various folk tales and legends, often reinforcing the dangers of travel during times when law enforcement was limited. Over time, the term has evolved but continues to evoke imagery of treachery and surprise ambushes, especially in storytelling and historical accounts.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #43,538, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.