Saunter Definition

Origin of Saunter

• Etymology unclear. In sense “to stroll", attested 1660s; noun sense “a stroll" attested 1828. Perhaps from earlier term meaning “to muse", late 15th century, from Middle English santren, of Unknown origin. Alternatively, from Anglo-Norman sauntrer (mid 14th century), from French s'aventurer (“to take risks"), but this is considered unlikely; compare Middle English aunter (“adventure"). May be of Germanic origin, with proposed cognates being German schlendern, Danish slentre, Swedish slentra, Icelandic slentr, all meaning “to stroll“. Various fanciful folk etymologies also given.

  From Wiktionary

• Probably from Middle English santren to muse

  From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition