extrinsic
- not essential or inherent; not a basic part or quality; extraneous: facts that are extrinsic to the matter under discussion.
- being outside a thing; outward or external; operating or coming from without: extrinsic influences.
- Anatomy. (of certain muscles, nerves, etc.) originating outside the anatomical limits of a part.
Origin of extrinsic
Related Words for extrinsic
acquired, alien, exotic, exterior, external, extraneous, imported, outer, outside, outward, superficialExamples from the Web for extrinsic
Contemporary Examples of extrinsic
All seamlessly addressed—not as extrinsic concerns but as inevitable elements of the larger story.
‘Broadchurch’ Is Great TV for Fans of ‘Downton Abbey,’ ‘Doctor Who,’ and ‘Prime Suspect’Andrew Romano
August 7, 2013
Extrinsic motivation is about external rewards—money, position, recognition.
Historical Examples of extrinsic
As in other minerals, value has both its intrinsic and extrinsic elements.
The Economic Aspect of GeologyC. K. Leith
I've neither fortune, nor fame, nor extrinsic advantages of any kind.
The Portrait of a LadyHenry James
It brings in the extrinsic consideration of social consequences.
Distributive JusticeJohn A. (John Augustine) Ryan
There are some extrinsic facts which hitherto unknown should be noted.
The Mystery of the Pinckney DraughtCharles C. Nott
Nor has it any solid support from tradition or extrinsic authority.
extrinsic
- not contained or included within; extraneous
- originating or acting from outside; external
Word Origin for extrinsic
Word Origin and History for extrinsic
1540s, from French extrinsèque, from Late Latin extrinsecus (adj.), from Latin extrinsecus (adv.) "outwardly," from exter "outside" + in, suffix of locality, + secus "beside, alongside," originally "following" (related to sequi "to follow;" see sequel).
extrinsic
(ĭk-strĭn′sĭk, -zĭk)- Of or relating to an organ or structure, especially a muscle, originating outside of the part where it is found or upon which it acts; adventitious.