Err
/ɜːr/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo be mistaken; to make a mistake.
/ɜːr/
To make a mistake or be incorrect.
The software erred in its output, producing incorrect results.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to bake a cake, but you accidentally put salt instead of sugar! That's like 'err': you messed up!
👶 For kids: To make a mistake, like when you accidentally color outside the lines.
More Examples
The accountant erred in balancing the books, leading to an investigation.
We can err, but that is no excuse for inaction.
How It's Used
"The computer program erred in its calculations."
"The judge erred in his interpretation of the law."
To wander or roam.
/ɜːr/
To wander or stray from a course.
The ancient mariner, lost at sea, began to err aimlessly through the waves.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're hiking in the woods and you get lost. You're basically 'erring' around, unsure of which way to go.
👶 For kids: To wander or go the wrong way, like getting lost in a maze.
More Examples
The explorers erred into unknown territories, seeking new discoveries.
Though I know my destination, I fear to err in my journey.
How It's Used
"The knight, errant and alone, began to err through the forest."
Idioms & expressions
to err on the side of caution
To be especially careful, so as not to make a mistake or take a risk.
"To ensure safety, the engineer erred on the side of caution, over-engineering the bridge."
From Old French *errer* (“to wander, stray”), from Latin *errare* (“to wander, make a mistake”), from Proto-Indo-European *h₁ers- (“to wander, roam”).
The word 'err' has been used since Middle English, often in religious texts and literature to describe human fallibility.