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intrinsic definition

in·trin·sic (in trin′sik, -zik)

adjective

  1. belonging to the real nature of a thing; not dependent on external circumstances; essential; inherent
  2. Anat. located within, or exclusively of, a part

Etymology: LME intrinsique < MFr intrinsèque < LL intrinsecus, inward < L, inwardly < intra-, within (see intra-) + secus, following: see extrinsic

Also Archaicintrinsical in·trin′·si·cal

Related Forms:

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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