stroll (strol)

i. [Early mod. E. also strowl, stroule, stroyle; appar. contracted from a ME. form * strouklen, streicher, a stroller), etc.: see strike, strakel, straggle, etc., struggle. ] 1. To saunter from point to point on foot; walk leisurely as inclination directs; ramble, especially for some particular purpose or aim. IMG:content-2290.png:[blocks in formation] There was something soothing, something pleasant, in thus strolling along the path by the flowing river. Mrs. Oliphant , Poor Gentleman, xxxix. 2. To rove from place to place; go about deviously as chance or opportunity offers; roam; wander; tramp: used especially of persons who lead a roaming life in search of occupation or subsistence. In 1703, “3 str owling Gipsies are ordered down to Hun tington to be Tryed for Robbing two Women." Ashton , Social Life in Reign of Queen Anne, II. 222. He turned strolling player; but his force and figure were ill suited to the boards. Macaulay , Goldsmith. 3. To turn in different directions; veer or glance about; rove, as the eyes. [Rare.] The am'rous Eyes thus always go A- stroling for their Friends below. Prior , Alma, ii. =Syn. 1 and 2. Saunter , Wander, etc. See ramble, v.