'Contrary motion' definitions:

Definition of 'Contrary motion'

From: GCIDE
  • 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]