Wanton is an adjective used to describe behavior that is either particularly inhuman, such as cruel and wanton behavior, or behavior that is lewd in a sexual context. It generally refers to actions that are deliberate and unprovoked. In legal contexts, wanton describes actions done with a reckless disregard for the rights or safety of others.
In the Supreme Court case of Gregg v. Georgia, the petitioner was sentenced to death after robbing and killing two men. This case was regarded as "outrageously and wantonly vile, horrible and inhuman" in that it "involved the depravity of [the] mind of the defendant."
The death penalty was upheld in this case, citing that: “The punishment of death for the crime of murder does not, under all circumstances, violate the Eighth and Fourteenth Amendments.” Additionally clarifying that the “Eighth Amendment, which has been interpreted in a flexible and dynamic manner to accord with evolving standards of decency, forbids the use of punishment that is "excessive" either because it involves the unnecessary and wanton infliction of pain or because it is grossly disproportionate to the severity of the crime.” See: Gregg v. Georgia, 428 U.S. 153 (1976)
[Last updated in July of 2024 by the Wex Definitions Team]