contrary motion

1 definition found

contrary motion - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Contrary \Con"tra*ry\ (? or ?; 48), a. [OE. contrarie,
     contraire, F. contraire, fr. L. contrarius, fr. contra. See
     Contra-.]
     1. Opposite; in an opposite direction; in opposition;
        adverse; as, contrary winds.
        [1913 Webster]
  
              And if ye walk contrary unto me, and will not
              hearken unto me.                      --Lev. xxvi.
                                                    21.
        [1913 Webster]
  
              We have lost our labor; they are gone a contrary
              way.                                  --Shak.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     2. Opposed; contradictory; repugnant; inconsistent.
        [1913 Webster]
  
              Fame, if not double-faced, is double mouthed,
              And with contrary blast proclaims most deeds.
                                                    --Milton.
        [1913 Webster]
  
              The doctrine of the earth's motion appeared to be
              contrary to the sacred Scripture.     --Whewell.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     3. Given to opposition; perverse; forward; wayward; as, a
        contrary disposition; a contrary child.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     4. (Logic) Affirming the opposite; so opposed as to destroy
        each other; as, contrary propositions.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     Contrary motion (Mus.), the progression of parts in
        opposite directions, one ascending, the other descending.
  
     Syn: Adverse; repugnant; hostile; inimical; discordant;
          inconsistent.
          [1913 Webster]