Amiss: meaning, definitions and examples
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amiss
[ əˈmɪs ]
something wrong
The term 'amiss' refers to something that is not quite right or is out of place. It suggests an error or a flaw, indicating that a situation is not as it should be.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- There was something amiss in their plans.
- If you feel something is amiss, it's worth investigating.
- The performance seemed amiss from the start.
Etymology
The word 'amiss' originates from the Old English word 'ames', which means 'amiss, wrong, or bad.' It has been used in various forms throughout Middle English as 'amis' before evolving into its current form. The prefix 'a-' derives from Old French, indicating 'on, in, or at', while 'miss' likely stems from the Latin 'mittere', meaning to 'send' or 'to let go'. Thus, 'amiss' conveys the idea of something being 'off', ‘not sent correctly’, or 'misplaced'. Over the centuries, 'amiss' has maintained its meaning of error or fault, often used in both everyday conversation and more literary contexts.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #15,004, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
- ...
- 15001 overcame
- 15002 recessive
- 15003 dynamically
- 15004 amiss
- 15005 shawl
- 15006 contrivance
- 15007 carcasses
- ...