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.
From the M-W Editors
1857
First Known Use of by–product
1857
BY–PRODUCT Defined for English Language Learners
by–product
playDefinition of by–product for English Language Learners
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: something that is produced during the production or destruction of something else
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: something that happens as a result of something else
BY–PRODUCT Defined for Kids
by–product
playDefinition of by–product for Students
: something produced (as in manufacturing) in addition to the main product
Learn More about by–product
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Spanish Central: Translation of by–product
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