Err

/ɜːr/

Meaning & Definition

verb
to make a mistake or to be incorrect
He did not err in his judgment about the situation.
to sin or to do wrong
The ancient texts remind us that to err is human.
to deviate from the truth or accuracy
In the report, she may have erred in her calculations.

Etymology

From Latin 'errare', meaning 'to wander or make a mistake'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to err is human
It is natural for people to make mistakes.
erring on the side of caution
To be overly cautious, often leading to mistakes.

Related Words

error
A mistake or inaccuracy.
erroneous
Containing or characterized by error.

Slang Meanings

To mess up
I totally erred on that exam.
Screwing up
I really erred when I forgot her birthday.