Contrary definition

(1) In an opposing direction

"Adverse currents"

"A contrary wind"

(2) Resistant to guidance or discipline

"Mary Mary quite contrary"

"An obstinate child with a violent temper"

"A perverse mood"

"Wayward behavior"

(3) Very opposed in nature or character or purpose

"Acts contrary to our code of ethics"

"The facts point to a contrary conclusion"

(4) Of words or propositions so related that both cannot be true but both may be false

"`hot' and `cold' are contrary terms"

(5) A logical relation such that two propositions are contraries if both cannot be true but both can be false

(6) Exact opposition

"Public opinion to the contrary he is not guilty"

(7) A relation of direct opposition

"We thought Sue was older than Bill but just the reverse was true"