Collins English-English Dictionary

contrary ['kɑntrərɪ]

1. 1. adj opposed in nature, position, etc

   contrary ideas

2. 2. adj perverse; obstinate

3. 3. adj (esp of wind) adverse; unfavourable

4. 4. adj (of plant parts) situated at right angles to each other

5. 5. adj [logic] (of a pair of propositions) related so that they cannot both be true at once, although they may both be false together - Compare subcontrary contradictory

6. 6. n the exact opposite (esp in the phrase to the contrary)

7. 7. n either of two exactly opposite objects, facts, or qualities

8. 8. n [logic] a statement that cannot be true when a given statement is true

9. 9. adv [usually foll by to] in an opposite or unexpected way

   contrary to usual belief

10. 10. adv in conflict (with) or contravention (of)

    contrary to nature

11. 11. adv [Etymology] C14: from Latin contrarius opposite, from contra against