Awry describes something that is out of the correct position or direction; off course or amiss. It implies a deviation from the expected or intended state, leading to confusion, malfunction, or an undesirable outcome. The word can apply to both physical objects, plans, and abstract concepts like emotions or situations. Often, 'awry' highlights a disruption or irregularity, a divergence from the norm, or an element of chaos or misdirection. The root sense often involves a bend, twist or misalignment from what is considered correct or straight. This can happen either accidentally or deliberately, depending on the context.
Awry meaning with examples
- The artist's attempt to hang the painting was unsuccessful; one of its corners was decidedly awry, creating an unbalanced and awkward appearance in the room. The entire arrangement of the room then seemed poorly organized. So, with a sigh, he stepped back to start again, and reposition the painting.
- After the unexpected storm, the weather vane was awry, spinning uncontrollably and pointing in erratic directions. The unexpected deviation from the norm signaled impending trouble to those that understood the signal; now, it gave them cause for concern, given its behavior.
- Despite careful planning, the project quickly went awry when a key team member unexpectedly resigned. Their sudden absence caused delays and created havoc throughout the entire structure. They all had to quickly re-evaluate their objectives, and change the course of their work.
- Her carefully constructed composure slipped when she received the startling news; a slight, almost imperceptible twitch on her face revealed that her plan to remain calm had gone awry. As her mask cracked, her true feelings burst forth. It was a long and emotional moment of great drama.
Awry Crossword Answers
3 Letters
KAM OFF
4 Letters
SKEW GONE WARY
5 Letters
ASKEW AMISS WRONG WONKY
6 Letters
ASTRAY SKEWED
7 Letters
TWISTED CROOKED HAYWIRE WAYWARD ASKANCE
8 Letters
SIDEWAYS COCKEYED LOPSIDED
9 Letters
SKEWWHIFF CROOKEDLY
10 Letters
CATAWAMPUS