anecdotal

adjective

an·​ec·​dot·​al ˌa-nik-ˈdō-tᵊl How to pronounce anecdotal (audio)
1
: based on or consisting of reports or observations of usually unscientific observers
anecdotal evidence
health benefits that may be more anecdotal than factual
2
a
: of, relating to, or consisting of anecdotes
an anecdotal biography
b
: given to or skilled in telling anecdotes : anecdotic sense 2
my anecdotal uncle
3
: of, relating to, or being the depiction of a scene suggesting a story
anecdotal details
anecdotally adverb

Examples of anecdotal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Despite numerous anecdotal reports, there is no convincing evidence of alien life or technology within our solar system (or, for that matter, in the cosmos at large). Jacob Wilde, Scientific American, 17 July 2024 Adverse reactions to malic acid supplementation, especially when consumed in large amounts, may include: Gastrointestinal discomfort: There are anecdotal reports of gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort when taking malic acid supplements. Mary Choy, Health, 14 July 2024 The anecdotal reports were true—the AI use went largely undetected, and, on average, ChatGPT scored better than human students. Beth Mole, Ars Technica, 28 June 2024 Emerging research supports these anecdotal claims, suggesting a possible link between the semaglutide and taste sensitivity. Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 13 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for anecdotal 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'anecdotal.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

see anecdote

First Known Use

1715, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Time Traveler
The first known use of anecdotal was in 1715

Dictionary Entries Near anecdotal

Cite this Entry

“Anecdotal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anecdotal. Accessed 26 Jul. 2024.

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