Contrary
Definition, Meaning & Examples
Pronunciation /ˈkɒntɹəɹi/ · Part of speech adjective
Quick meaning: Contrary is an adjective meaning Opposite; in an opposite direction; in opposition; adverse.
Meaning
Opposite; in an opposite direction; in opposition; adverse.
More Meanings
- Opposed; contradictory; inconsistent.
- Given to opposition; perverse; wayward.
- Contrarily
- The opposite.
- (logic) One of a pair of propositions that cannot both be simultaneously true, though they may both be false.
- (historical) A type of loaded die.
- (obsolete) To oppose; to frustrate.
Example Sentences
contrary winds
I never act contrary to my principles.
a contrary disposition; a contrary child
We have lost our labour; they are gone a contrary way.
Word Forms
- contraries
- contrarying
- contraried
Synonyms for contrary
Depending on context, synonyms include contradictory, contrariant, contrarious, counter, cross, disagreeable.
Antonyms for contrary
Common opposites include cooperative, synergistic, unopposed.
Related Words
Related dictionary entries include antonymous, opposite, adverse, wayward, different, perverse.
Related Dictionary Tools
Sources & Attribution
FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0
Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.