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periphery

noun

/pəˈrɪf ə ri/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of periphery

The outer boundary or edge of something, typically a physical object, space, or concept.
"The house stood on the periphery of the town, overlooking vast fields."

Detailed meaning of periphery

It represents the outermost or surrounding area of a central point or core. The periphery often defines the outer limits or extent of a particular entity or system. It can refer to the outer regions of a geographic area, the edges of a city, or the outskirts of a town. In a conceptual sense, the periphery can also denote secondary or less significant aspects of a larger idea or topic. It signifies a position or state of being on the fringes or margins, not at the center or focal point. The periphery can be metaphorically associated with lesser influence, attention, or importance compared to the core or central aspects. Understanding the periphery is crucial for comprehending the entirety of a system or concept, as it provides context and perspective beyond the central elements.

Example sentences containing periphery

1. The periphery of the forest was teeming with wildlife.
2. He preferred to sit at the periphery of the room, observing rather than participating.
3. The city's development extended beyond the urban core into the periphery.
4. The museum displayed artworks from both the center and periphery of the art world.
5. The shopping mall was located on the periphery of the city, easily accessible by car.
6. The periphery of the painting showcased intricate details often overlooked.

History and etymology of periphery

The noun 'periphery' has its etymological roots in Greek. It is derived from the Greek word 'periphereia,' which is a combination of 'peri,' meaning 'around,' and 'pherein,' meaning 'to carry' or 'to bear.' 'Periphereia' originally conveyed the idea of something that is carried or exists around the edges or outer boundary of a particular area or concept. As this term transitioned into Latin and later into English, 'periphery' retained this core concept, coming to describe the outer boundary or edge of something, whether it is a physical object, space, or even an abstract concept. The etymology of 'periphery' emphasizes the notion of something being on the outskirts or perimeters, highlighting its role in defining the outer limits of various aspects of our world.

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Further usage examples of periphery

1. She enjoyed exploring the periphery of the national park, discovering hidden trails.
2. The project aimed to improve infrastructure in the periphery, connecting remote areas to the city.
3. The author's research delved into the periphery of the subject, uncovering lesser-known aspects.
4. The company's growth strategy targeted expansion into markets on the periphery of their industry.
5. He felt a sense of adventure when venturing into the periphery of unfamiliar territories.
6. The book explored the cultural influences that shaped music on the periphery of mainstream genres.
7. The new housing development was located in the periphery, away from the crowded city center.
8. The discussion touched upon issues at the periphery of the main topic, providing additional context.
9. She placed the flowers on the periphery of the table.
10. The periphery of the forest is home to many wildlife species.
11. His ideas always push the boundaries of the periphery.
12. The old castle lies on the periphery of the village.
13. The noise faded into the periphery of my consciousness.
14. The city's periphery offers a quieter pace of life.
15. We explored the cultural periphery of the city.
16. The periphery of the storm brought heavy rainfall.
17. The periphery of the galaxy is still a mystery.
18. Her talents extend beyond the periphery of the stage.
19. The small island is on the periphery of the map.
20. The periphery of the desert is a harsh environment.
21. The car's headlights barely penetrated the periphery.
22. The issue is on the periphery of our main concerns.
23. He preferred to live on the periphery of the city.
24. The periphery of the canvas was left intentionally blank.
25. The periphery of the problem had yet to be explored.
26. The town is located on the periphery of the national park.
27. His actions skirted the periphery of legality.
28. The periphery of the debate touched on critical issues.