aftereffect

noun

af·​ter·​ef·​fect ˈaf-tər-ə-ˌfekt 

: an effect that follows its cause after an interval

Synonyms

• aftermath
• backwash
• child
• conclusion
• consequence
• corollary
• development
• effect
• fate
• fruit
• issue
• outcome
• outgrowth
• precipitate
• product
• result
• resultant
• sequel
• sequence
• upshot

Examples of aftereffect in a Sentence

in the U.S. slavery was abolished in 1865, but its aftereffects remained keenly felt long afterwards

Recent Examples on the Web

Investigate the aftereffects of ink color and fading tendencies: Tattoos can vary in quality depending on the ink depth and the pigments used, with minimal industry regulation, according to Beautiful Canadian. —Laura Daniella Sepulveda, The Arizona Republic, 13 May 2024

Like the older movements, the current one is likely to be the subject of decades of research into its origins, its aims and its aftereffects. —Richard Fausset, New York Times, 4 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

after- + effect entry 1

First Known Use

1656, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

aftereffect

noun

af·​ter·​ef·​fect -ə-ˌfekt 

: an effect that arises after the first or immediate effect has decreased or disappeared

a medicine with no noticeable aftereffects

Medical Definition

aftereffect

noun

af·​ter·​ef·​fect ˈaf-tə-ri-ˌfekt 

1

: an effect that follows its cause after an interval

the aftereffects of surgery

2

: a secondary result especially in the action of a drug coming on after the subsidence of the first effect