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