adj

adrift

uh-DRIHFT

Adrift (adj) means drifting without control or direction, especially on water. Example: “The rowboat was found adrift in the bay.”

adj

Drifting without control or direction, especially on water.

"The rowboat was found adrift in the bay."

"After the engine failed, the yacht drifted adrift for hours."

Lacking direction or purpose in life.

"After losing his job, he felt completely adrift."

"She spent her twenties feeling adrift, unsure what she wanted."

How to use adrift

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishFloating aimlessly, or feeling lost and without direction in life.

Common pairings

set adrift feel adrift

Word forms

more adrift comparative, more adrift comparative, most adrift superlative, most adrift superlative

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The rowboat was found _____ in the bay.

Etymology

From a- ("in a state of") + drift.

Frequently asked questions

What does “adrift” mean?

The word “adrift” means drifting without control or direction, especially on water. In plain terms, floating aimlessly, or feeling lost and without direction in life.

How do you pronounce “adrift”?

“Adrift” is pronounced uh-DRIHFT (/əˈdɹɪft/ in IPA).

How do you use “adrift” in a sentence?

Here is “adrift” used in a sentence: “The rowboat was found adrift in the bay.”

What part of speech is “adrift”?

“Adrift” is an adjective.

How many meanings does “adrift” have?

“Adrift” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: drifting without control or direction, especially on water.