Wanton Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Wanton, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Wanton?

(adj) An action is classified as ‘wanton’ when it was executed with gross negligence disregarding the safety and security of the public and property or social existence etc . For example carrying gunpowder or crackers carelessly in a market place, walking nude etc.

History and Definition of Wanton

The term "wanton" is often used in legal language to describe an action that was carried out with reckless or deliberate disregard for the safety of others. This type of behavior is considered to be morally reprehensible and may be subject to legal consequences. The term "wanton" has its origins in Old English, where it was used to describe a person who was reckless or undisciplined.

In modern legal usage, the term "wanton" is typically applied to cases of gross negligence, where an individual shows a complete disregard for the safety and well-being of others. This could include, for example, driving on public roads at high speeds or engaging in potentially dangerous activities without proper safety precautions.

Examples of Wanton

  1. A driver who deliberately speeds through a residential area, putting pedestrians and other drivers at risk, could be charged with wanton behavior.
  2. A company that knowingly produces a defective product without warning consumers of the potential danger could also be found guilty of wanton behavior.
  3. An individual who sets off fireworks in a crowded area, failing to take proper safety precautions, could also be charged with wanton conduct.

Legal Terms Similar to Wanton

  1. Negligence - Refers to a failure to exercise the level of care required under certain circumstances, which results in harm to another individual or property.
  2. Recklessness - Refers to a willful disregard for the safety and well-being of others, often resulting in harm.
  3. Gross negligence - Refers to a failure to exercise even the slightest degree of care in order to prevent harm to others.