What is the deff. and the correct meaning of "wanton disregard"?

Question

I though it meant " that someone acted with the intent of hurting or killing someone" I Read something that compared the act with throwing a bomb into a restaurant. but my professor says I have the incorrect understanding of the meaning , and I can't find a good definition online.

Answer 1

Wanton disregard is kind of like a "careless" disregard of something. You don't have to kill someone to have it. For example, She threw the cigarette out of her car window with wanton disregard. (for the environment)

wan·ton

–adjective 1. done, shown, used, etc., maliciously or unjustifiably: a wanton attack; wanton cruelty.
2. deliberate and without motive or provocation; uncalled-for; headstrong; willful: Why jeopardize your career in such a wanton way?
3. without regard for what is right, just, humane, etc.; careless; reckless: a wanton attacker of religious convictions.
4. sexually lawless or unrestrained; loose; lascivious; lewd: wanton behavior.
5. extravagantly or excessively luxurious, as a person, manner of living, or style

Answer 2

It means the person is reckless with respect to the substantial likelihood of danger. You don't have the intent, you may appreciate the danger, but not care. It is less than specific intent. The best example is waving a loaded gun at someone. It may go off. Anyone knows it may go off. If it does, there's a substantial chance that someone will be injured.