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adj. 1. Not in conformity with fact or truth; incorrect or erroneous: a wrong answer. 2. a. Contrary to conscience, morality, or law: Stealing is wrong. b. Unfair; unjust: The kids felt it was wrong when some got to go on the field trip but not others. 3. Not required, intended, or wanted: took a wrong turn. 4. Not fitting or suitable; inappropriate or improper: said the wrong thing. 5. Not in accord with established usage, method, or procedure: the wrong way to shuck clams. 6. Not functioning properly; amiss: What is wrong with the TV? 7. Designating the side, as of a garment, that is less finished and not intended to show: socks worn wrong side out. adv. 1. In a wrong manner; mistakenly or erroneously: answered wrong. 2. In a wrong course or direction: turned wrong at the crossroads. 3. Immorally or unjustly: She acted wrong in lying. n. 1. a. An unjust, injurious, or immoral act: felt that he had been done a wrong. b. That which is unjust, immoral, or improper: doesn't seem to know right from wrong. c. The condition of being in error or at fault: I hate being in the wrong. 2. a. An invasion or a violation of another's legal rights. b. Law A tort. tr.v. wronged, wrong·ing, wrongs Idioms: 1. To treat (someone) unjustly or injuriously. 2. To discredit unjustly; malign: "those whom he had wronged with his bitter pen" (Evan I. Schwartz). do (someone) wrong Informal To be unfaithful or disloyal. go wrong 1. To go amiss; turn out badly: What went wrong with their business? 2. To make a mistake or mistakes: parents wondering where they went wrong raising their child. 3. To behave immorally after a period of innocence or moral behavior: a young man who went wrong. [Middle English, of Scandinavian origin; see wer-2 in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] wronger n. wrongly adv. wrongness n. |
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