extrinsic

ex·trin·sic

adj \ek-ˈstrin-zik, -ˈstrin(t)-sik\

Definition of EXTRINSIC

1

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>

2

: external

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

Examples of EXTRINSIC

1. You have to consider any extrinsic factors in the success of the business.
2. <the fact that the ring belonged to your grandmother is extrinsic to its value to a jeweler>

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

Related Words: exterior, outside; immaterial, inapplicable, insignificant, irrelevant; nonessential, unessential, unnecessary

Near Antonyms: congenital, deep-seated, inborn, inbred; inside, interior, internal; basic, essential, necessary

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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>.