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Peripheral

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Relating to or located on the outer limits or edges of something.
2. Not central or of primary importance; secondary or minor.
3. In technology, referring to devices or equipment that are connected to a computer or system but are not essential for its core operation.

History and Origin

The word “peripheral” comes from the Greek peripheria, meaning “circumference” or “outer boundary.” It was adopted into Middle French and then into English during the 16th century to describe things that are located or occur at the boundary or edge of a defined space. Over time, it also took on figurative meanings, describing things of secondary importance or that are outside the main focus.

Detailed Explanation

“Peripheral” describes things that are on the outer edges or less central to a situation. In a physical sense, it can refer to the outer parts of something, such as peripheral vision (the ability to see objects outside of direct line of sight). Figuratively, it is used to describe things that are secondary or not crucial to the main issue or purpose. In technology, “peripheral” refers to external devices like printers, scanners, and keyboards that support a computer but are not essential to its core functions.

Example Sentences

1. The peripheral details of the report were not as important as the main findings.
2. He used the peripheral vision in his training to improve his reaction time.
3. The manager focused on the core issues, leaving the peripheral matters for later discussion.
4. The company invested in several peripheral devices to enhance the office’s technology.
5. The car’s peripheral systems, like the air conditioning and radio, were all functioning properly.
6. Her peripheral involvement in the project meant she didn’t have much influence over the final decision.
7. The peripheral equipment was easy to set up and did not require advanced technical knowledge.
8. The committee considered both central and peripheral factors in making their decision.
9. Peripheral distractions during the meeting made it difficult to focus on the main discussion.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Secondary – Less important or not primary in comparison to the main focus.
2. Marginal – Of minor importance or situated on the edge or outskirts.
3. Auxiliary – Providing supplementary support, often secondary to the primary function.
4. Incidental – Occurring as a minor or less significant part of something larger.
5. Minor – Not major or central; of lesser importance.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Fringe – The outer edge or boundary, often used to describe things that are peripheral.
2. Outlying – Located at a distance from the center, often used to describe peripheral areas or concerns.
3. Accessory – A supplementary item or part that is peripheral to the main function.
4. Supplementary – Something added to enhance or complete, but not essential.
5. Side – A less central or secondary part of something, often peripheral to the main issue.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Peripheral Vision – The ability to see objects outside the direct line of sight.
2. Peripheral Devices – Equipment connected to a computer or system but not crucial to its core operation.
3. Side Issue – A topic or concern that is not the main focus but still related.
4. Borderline – On the edge or periphery of something, either literally or figuratively.
5. Fringe Benefit – Additional benefits provided to employees, often of secondary importance to the core salary.

Antonyms

1. Central
2. Primary
3. Main
4. Core
5. Essential