extrinsic

adjective ex·trin·sic \ek-ˈstrin-zik, -ˈstrin(t)-sik\

: not part of something : coming from the outside of something

Full Definition of EXTRINSIC

a : not forming part of or belonging to a thing : extraneous

b : originating from or on the outside; especially : originating outside a part and acting upon the part as a whole <extrinsic muscles of the tongue>

: external

— ex·trin·si·cal·ly \-zi-k(ə-)lē, -si-\ adverb

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Origin of EXTRINSIC

French & Late Latin; French extrinsèque, from Late Latin extrinsecus, from Latin, adverb, from without; akin to Latin exter outward and to Latin sequi to follow — more at exterior, sue

First Known Use: 1613

Related to EXTRINSIC

Synonyms: accidental, adventitious, alien, extraneous, external, foreign, supervenient

Antonyms: inherent, innate, intrinsic

Synonym Discussion of EXTRINSIC

extrinsic, extraneous, foreign, alien mean external to a thing, its essential nature, or its original character. extrinsic applies to what is distinctly outside the thing in question or is not contained in or derived from its essential nature <sentimental value that is extrinsic to the house's market value>. extraneous applies to what is on or comes from the outside and may or may not be capable of becoming an essential part <arguments extraneous to the issue>. foreign applies to what is so different as to be rejected or repelled or to be incapable of becoming assimilated <techniques foreign to French cuisine>. alien is stronger than foreign in suggesting opposition, repugnance, or irreconcilability <a practice totally alien to her nature>.

Medical Dictionary

extrinsic

adjective ex·trin·sic \ek-ˈstrin-zik, -ˈstrin(t)-sik\

Medical Definition of EXTRINSIC

: originating or due to causes or factors from or on the outside of a body, organ, or part <renal tumors or cysts…causing extrinsic compression of the renal vasculature—Scientific American Medicine>

: originating outside a part and acting on the part as a whole—used especially of certain muscles <the extrinsic muscles of the tongue>; compare intrinsic 2

—ex·trin·si·cal·ly \-zi-k(ə-)lē, -si-\ adverb

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Spanish Central: Spanish translation of "extrinsic"

Nglish: Translation of "extrinsic" for Spanish speakers

Britannica English: Translation of "extrinsic" for Arabic speakers

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