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by-product

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noun by-prod·uct \ -ˌprä-(ˌ)dəkt \

Definition of by-product

1 :something produced in a usually industrial or biological process in addition to the principal product
  • a chemical by-product of the oil-refining process
2 :a secondary and sometimes unexpected or unintended result
  • The loss of jobs is an unfortunate by-product of technological advancements in the industry.

See by-product defined for English-language learners

See by-product defined for kids

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First Known Use of by-product

1857

by-product Synonyms

Synonyms
by-product, derivate, derivation, offshoot, outgrowth, spin-off
Antonyms
origin, root, source
Related Words
descendant (also descendent); aftermath, consequence, corollary, development, fruit, growth, issue, outcome, product, result, sequel, sequence, upshot; denouement (also dénouement), repercussion; aftereffect, side effect (also side reaction); copy, duplicate, facsimile, replica, reproduction
Near Antonyms
archetype, original, prototype; antecedent, cause, determinant, occasion, reason

BY-PRODUCT Defined for English Language Learners

by-product

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noun

Definition of by-product for English Language Learners

  • : something that is produced during the production or destruction of something else

  • : something that happens as a result of something else

BY-PRODUCT Defined for Kids

by-product

noun by-prod·uct \ ˈbī-ˌprä-dəkt \

Definition of by-product for Students

:something produced (as in manufacturing) in addition to the main product

Learn More about by-product

  1. Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for by-product Nglish: Translation of by-product for Spanish speakers

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