err

UK: ɜː | US: ɜːr

Definition

  1. vi. to make a mistake or be incorrect

Structure
err <to wander, go astray (from Latin *errare*)>
Etymology

The word "err" originates from the Latin errare, meaning "to wander" or "go astray." This root reflects the idea of deviation from correctness, much like physically straying from a path. Over time, the meaning narrowed to focus on making mistakes or being wrong. The Latin errare also gave rise to related English words like "error" and "erratic," reinforcing the concept of deviation or unpredictability.

Examples

  1. To err is human; to forgive, divine.

  2. The accountant realized he had erred in his calculations.

  3. Even experts can err under pressure.

  4. She would rather err on the side of caution.

  5. The machine will not err if programmed correctly.