Amiss Definition

amiss
adverb
  1. away from the correct or expected course; "something has gone awry in our plans"; "something went badly amiss in the preparations"
  2. in an improper or mistaken or unfortunate manner; "if you think him guilty you judge amiss"; "he spoke amiss"; "no one took it amiss when she spoke frankly"
  3. in an imperfect or faulty way; "The lobe was imperfectly developed"; "Miss Bennet would not play at all amiss if she practiced more"- Jane Austen
adjective
  1. not functioning properly; "something is amiss"; "has gone completely haywire"; "something is wrong with the engine"

"Amiss" in song lyrics

See how amiss is used in real songs:

  • "I was quietlike, not the riot-type amiss"
    East Coast Avenger$ (Esoteric, Trademarc, DC) — Win/Win Situation
  • "Check your reasoning cause there's something amiss"
    X-Clan — Grand Verbalizer
  • "Myself corrupting, salving thy amiss,"
    William Shakespeare — Sonnet XXXV

Words that rhyme with amiss

Usage tips for "amiss"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "amiss" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for amiss to find words that pair well.

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