err
Err (verb) means to make a mistake; to be wrong. Example: “To err is human, to forgive divine.”
How to use err
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo make a mistake or go wrong.
Don't confuse with the hesitation sound "er" or "erm" — "err" is a real verb meaning "to be mistaken," pronounced like "er" or, in some dialects, like "ur."
Word forms
erred past tense, errs singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
To _____ is human, to forgive divine.
Etymology
From Old French errer, from Latin errāre, "to wander, stray, be mistaken."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for err
See all rhymes for err →Frequently asked questions
What does “err” mean?
The word “err” means to make a mistake; to be wrong. In plain terms, to make a mistake or go wrong.
How do you pronounce “err”?
“Err” is pronounced ur (/ɛɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “err” in a sentence?
Here is “err” used in a sentence: “To err is human, to forgive divine.”
What part of speech is “err”?
“Err” is a verb.
Where does the word “err” come from?
The word “err” comes from Latin. From Old French errer, from Latin errāre, "to wander, stray, be mistaken.".
Is “err” a common word?
“Err” is an uncommon word in modern English.