Error

Definition

Error is a noun that refers to a mistake or inaccuracy. It often indicates a deviation from accuracy, correctness, or what is intended, and can occur in various contexts such as computing, mathematics, and human actions.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛrər/
• Respelling: AIR-er

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛrə/
• Respelling: EH-ruh

Etymology

The word "error" originates from the Latin "error," meaning "a wandering" or "mistake," derived from "errare," meaning "to stray" or "to wander." The term entered Middle English in the 14th century and evolved to mean a deviation from correctness or accuracy.

Derivatives

• Erroneous (adjective)
• Err (verb)
• Error-free (adjective)
• Miscalculation (noun)
• Inaccuracy (noun)

Synonyms

• Mistake
• Inaccuracy
• Fault

Antonyms

• Accuracy
• Correctness
• Precision

Usage

The term "error" is widely used in various fields to indicate a deviation from correctness or accuracy. For example, in computing, "system error" may refer to a software fault, while in human activity, "human error" indicates a mistake made due to oversight or misjudgment.

Related Terms

• Mistake: An action or judgment that is misguided or wrong.
• Fault: A flaw or defect causing an error.
• Misjudgment: An incorrect assessment or error in judgment.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A mistake or inaccuracy: Refers to an incorrect action, judgment, or result.
  • Example: "The report contained a significant error in its calculations."
• A deviation from accuracy or correctness: Indicates a flaw or fault in a process or outcome.
  • Example: "There was an error in the software code."
• A fault or malfunction in a system or device: Used in technical contexts, particularly computing, to denote a system fault.
  • Example: "A system error caused the application to crash."