The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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peripheral

adjective

/pɪˈrɪf(ə)rəl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of peripheral

Located on the outer edge or boundary of an area, or is of secondary importance.
"The peripheral vision of the driver allowed him to see the approaching car."

Detailed meaning of peripheral

The term is often used in the context of computer hardware, where peripheral devices are external devices that are connected to a computer, such as a printer, keyboard, or mouse. These devices are not necessary for the computer to function, but they add additional functionality.

In medicine, peripheral nerves are the nerves located outside of the brain and spinal cord that provide sensation and movement to the rest of the body.

In business, peripheral markets or industries refer to those that are less important or less directly related to the main area of focus.

In geography, peripheral regions are the ones that are located on the outer edge of a country or continent, often less developed and less connected to the center of the country in terms of infrastructure and economy.

Overall, Peripheral refers to something that is located on the outer edge or boundary of an area, or is of secondary importance, often used in the context of computer hardware, medicine, business and geography.

Example sentences containing peripheral

1. The peripheral vision of birds is significantly sharper than that of humans.
2. His involvement in the project was only peripheral, but it helped shape his career.
3. Peripheral issues often distract us from the main focus.
4. She could see the figure in her peripheral vision, a shadowy form lurking.
5. The doctor suggested that he might have peripheral neuropathy, explaining his symptoms.
6. In our peripheral discussions, we started to uncover some interesting insights.

History and etymology of peripheral

The adjective 'peripheral' derives its etymology from Latin roots. It can be traced back to the Latin word 'peripheria,' which in turn originates from the Greek 'periphereia.' In Greek, 'peri' means 'around' or 'about,' and 'pherein' means 'to carry.' Hence, 'peripheral' essentially encapsulates the concept of something being located on the outer edge or boundary of an area. Over time, this term has evolved to encompass the idea of secondary importance, as elements on the periphery are often seen as less central or significant. This rich etymological history reflects the evolution of the word 'peripheral' to convey not only physical positioning but also the notion of relative importance or relevance.

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Further usage examples of peripheral

1. They were focused on the core problems, ignoring the peripheral ones.
2. His peripheral involvement didn't grant him any significant understanding of the situation.
3. The old city's charm was not in its center, but rather in its peripheral areas.
4. She noticed a flicker in her peripheral vision, alerting her to potential danger.
5. He purchased a new peripheral device for his computer, a high-end gaming mouse.
6. While peripheral to the main story, the subplot added depth to the narrative.
7. The city's peripheral communities often felt overlooked in political discussions.
8. The course included peripheral studies that expanded upon the main subject matter.
9. My peripheral awareness allowed me to notice the approaching car just in time.
10. She had a knack for noticing peripheral details others often missed.
11. The peripheral characters in the novel provided necessary context and depth.
12. Your peripheral devices seem to be causing the system error.
13. Though peripheral to the main plot, her character offered a refreshing perspective.
14. Some parts of the brain are responsible for controlling peripheral vision.