peripheral

The definition of peripheral is something that is just outside of the main focus.

(adjective)

An example of peripheral is the type of vision you use to see things that are on your side.

A peripheral is defined as a piece of equipment that works with a computer.

(noun)

An example of a peripheral is a printer.

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See peripheral in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

  1. of, belonging to, or forming a periphery
    1. lying at the outside or away from the central part; outer; external
    2. Anat. of, at, or near the surface of the body; specif., designating or of that part of a nervous system that branches out from a central nervous system
  2. only slightly connected with what is essential or important; merely incidental

noun

a piece of equipment that can be used with a computer to increase its functional range or efficiency, as a printer, scanner, disk, etc.

Related Forms:

See peripheral in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective
  1. Related to, located in, or constituting an outer boundary or periphery.
  2. Perceived or perceiving near the outer edges of the retina: peripheral vision.
  3. Anatomy
    a. Of the surface or outer part of a body or organ; external.
    b. Of, relating to, or being part of the peripheral nervous system.
  4. Of minor relevance or importance.
  5. Auxiliary.
noun
Computer Science
An auxiliary device, such as a printer, modem, or storage system, that works in conjunction with a computer.

Related Forms:

  • pe·riphˈer·al·ly adverb

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