Peripheral: meaning, definitions and examples

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peripheral

[pəˈrɪf(ə)rəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

computer technology

Relating to or situated on the edge or periphery of something. Peripheral devices are hardware components that are connected to a computer and are controlled by the computer's processor.

Synonyms

additional, ancillary, external.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
peripheral	Used when talking about something that is not the main focus or is on the outer edge of a particular area or subject. Peripherals for a computer include items like a mouse, keyboard, and printer The discussion covered many peripheral issues not directly related to the main topic
external	Used when talking about something that is on the outside of something else, or comes from outside. The external walls of the house need painting The company sought external advice for its financial problems
additional	Used when referring to something that is extra or added beyond what is already present or available. The project requires additional funding to be completed She took on additional responsibilities at work
ancillary	Used when referring to something that is supportive or supplementary to the main thing but is not essential by itself. The company provides ancillary services such as cleaning and maintenance These measures are ancillary to the main goal of improving patient health

Examples of usage

The printer and scanner are peripheral devices for the computer.
Make sure to install the necessary drivers for your peripheral devices.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

anatomy

A peripheral nerve or part of the nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord. The peripheral nervous system is responsible for transmitting information between the central nervous system and the rest of the body.

Synonyms

branch, extension, nerve.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
peripheral	Use it in a technical or medical context when talking about external devices or outer parts not central to the main operation, particularly in computing or physiology. The keyboard and mouse are peripheral devices connected to the computer. Peripheral nerves are those that are not part of the brain or spinal cord.
nerve	Commonly used in medical, biological, or colloquial contexts. It can refer to a fiber transmitting impulses or indicate courage or bravado. It sometimes carries a negative connotation when implying brashness or audacity. He damaged a nerve in his hand. She finally gathered the nerve to ask for a raise. You've got some nerve to accuse me of lying.
branch	This is suitable for hierarchical or organizational contexts. It can describe a division of a larger entity, like a bank, company, or tree. He was promoted to manage the branch office in Chicago. The willow tree has many long branches.
extension	Use it to describe something added to increase the size, length, or scope of something, often in construction, software, or academic settings. The building's extension will include more classrooms. I installed a browser extension to block ads.

Examples of usage

Damage to the peripheral nerves can result in numbness or tingling.
The doctor will perform a test to check the function of your peripheral nervous system.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Greek 'peripheria', meaning 'circumference' or 'outer part'.
It combines 'peri-', meaning 'around', and 'pherein', meaning 'to bear or carry'.
Used in English since the late 1600s, it initially described physical locations.

Technology

In computing, 'peripheral' refers to devices like printers, keyboards, and mice that connect to a computer.
Peripheral devices enhance computer functionality but are not the core components like CPU or RAM.
Modern technology often uses wireless peripherals, allowing for a cleaner and more flexible workspace.

Psychology

The peripheral route in persuasive communication focuses on superficial cues rather than the main message.
Distraction or a lack of attention can lead to better recall of peripheral cues rather than central details.
Understanding how people process information peripherally can help in marketing and teaching strategies.

Art & Literature

In storytelling, peripheral characters add depth but are not the main focus, enriching the narrative.
An artist might use peripheral elements in a composition to draw attention to the central subject.
Literary works often explore peripheral experiences to highlight societal issues and illustrate varied perspectives.

Health

In physical health, 'peripheral' often refers to parts of the body away from the central nervous system, like limbs.
Peripheral vision allows us to see our surroundings without directly looking, indicating its importance for safety.
Peripheral artery disease affects blood flow to limbs, highlighting health issues associated with the body's edges.

Translations

Translations of the word "peripheral" in other languages:

🇵🇹 periférico

🇮🇳 परिधीय

🇩🇪 peripher

🇮🇩 periferal

🇺🇦 периферійний

🇵🇱 peryferyjny

🇯🇵 周辺

🇫🇷 périphérique

🇪🇸 periférico

🇹🇷 çevresel

🇰🇷 주변

🇸🇦 محيطي

🇨🇿 periferní

🇸🇰 periférny

🇨🇳 外围

🇸🇮 periferni

🇮🇸 jaðar

🇰🇿 перифериялық

🇬🇪 პერიფერიული

🇦🇿 periferik

🇲🇽 periférico

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,889, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

...
4886 observer
4887 rid
4888 coloured
4889 peripheral
4890 fence
4891 introducing
4892 worried
...