Legal Definitions - wanton

Definition: Wanton is an adjective used to describe behavior that is either cruel and inhuman or lewd and bawdy in a sexual context.

• The wanton destruction of the rainforest by logging companies is a tragedy for the environment.
• She danced wantonly on the stage, leaving little to the imagination.

The first example illustrates the inhuman aspect of wanton behavior. The logging companies are destroying the rainforest without any regard for the consequences, which is cruel and inhumane. The second example illustrates the lewd aspect of wanton behavior. The woman is dancing in a sexually suggestive manner, which is considered bawdy and inappropriate in some contexts.