contrary contrary /kənˈtrɛri/

adjective

1. () Very opposed in nature, character or purpose  ( contrary )
   very opposed in nature, character or purpose
    Acts contrary to our code of ethics
   acts contrary to our code of ethics
    The facts point to a contrary conclusion
   the facts point to a contrary conclusion
   
2. () Of words or propositions so related that both cannot be true but both may be false  ( contrary )
   of words or propositions so related that both cannot be true but both may be false
    Hot' and cold' are contrary terms
   hot' and cold' are contrary terms
   
3. In an opposing direction  ( adverse , contrary )
   in an opposing direction
    Adverse currents
   adverse currents
    A contrary wind
   a contrary wind
   
4. Resistant to guidance or discipline  ( contrary , obstinate , perverse , wayward )
   resistant to guidance or discipline
    Mary Mary quite contrary
   Mary Mary quite contrary
    An obstinate child with a violent temper
   an obstinate child with a violent temper
    A perverse mood
   a perverse mood
    Wayward behavior
   wayward behavior
   

noun

1. () A relation of direct opposition  ( opposite , reverse , contrary )
   a relation of direct opposition
    We thought Sue was older than Bill but just the reverse was true
   we thought Sue was older than Bill but just the reverse was true
   
2. A logical relation such that two propositions are contraries if both cannot be true but both can be false  ( contrary )
   a logical relation such that two propositions are contraries if both cannot be true but both can be false
   
3. Exact opposition  ( contrary )
   exact opposition
    Public opinion to the contrary he is not guilty
   public opinion to the contrary he is not guilty