1
as in residue
a remaining group or portion
They tested for chemical residuals in the water.
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2
as in reminder
a lingering indication of something from the past
Some modern traditions are residuals of ancient beliefs and rituals.
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as in lingering
still existing or happening after something is completed or removed
The oven was still warm with residual heat. The area is still dealing with the residual effects of the flood.
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of residual
Katie Kilkenny, HollywoodReporter, 11 July 2025
The residuals will flow into the city of San Diego’s wastewater line and ultimately to the Point Loma Wastewater Treatment Plant.
—Gary Warth, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Feb. 2025
Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2025
Oh well, might as well prepare for the next performing arts season — which technically begins in the fall — while reminding folks of some residual summer musicals.
—Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 31 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for residual
Noun
Their slate will focus on strong contracts, healthcare reforms, AI protections, stronger residuals, safe working conditions and paying attention to the unique needs of the union’s 25 Locals, Astin said.
—Katie Kilkenny, HollywoodReporter, 11 July 2025
The residuals will flow into the city of San Diego’s wastewater line and ultimately to the Point Loma Wastewater Treatment Plant.
—Gary Warth, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Feb. 2025
Adjective
After Whitney Houston died in 2012, an estate tax dispute arose with the IRS over the value of her entertainment royalties, residual income, and other assets.
—Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2025
Oh well, might as well prepare for the next performing arts season — which technically begins in the fall — while reminding folks of some residual summer musicals.
—Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 31 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for residual
Recent Examples of Synonyms for residual
Noun
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Pan release was equally impressive — a quick flip freed the loaves and no residue remained in the pan.—
Mark Marino,
Bon Appetit Magazine,
13 Aug. 2025
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Because of that, the remaining residue isn't exactly pleasant to eat, according to the expert.—
Andrea Margolis,
FOXNews.com,
12 Aug. 2025
Noun
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While teams may be reluctant to hand out long-term deals, these backs are reminders that the right fit at the right time can still make a running back one of the most important difference-makers on the field — and in fantasy football lineups this fall.—
Tyler Small,
Forbes.com,
24 Aug. 2025
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But should the Panthers choose to keep the veteran wideout, Jefferson’s play is a reminder that there are plenty of other potentially available options who could bolster a room that hasn’t produced much of note over the past month.—
Jace Frederick,
Twin Cities,
23 Aug. 2025
Noun
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The first type are white dwarfs, which are the remnants of sun-like stars.—
Keith Cooper,
Space.com,
19 Aug. 2025
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The brick building, built in 1882, once served as a bank, hotel, and hospital, providing plenty of remnants of historic charm.—
Lauren Jones,
Southern Living,
16 Aug. 2025
Adjective
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That’s a deeper, more lasting source of motivation, especially in smaller startups.—
Expert Panel®,
Forbes.com,
22 Aug. 2025
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Its world debut came at the ALS NEXUS Convention in Dallas during the Heroes Awards Dinner, honoring those making a lasting impact in the ALS community.—
Jordan Greene,
People.com,
22 Aug. 2025
Noun
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The early medieval artifact dates back to the 800s, the school said.—
Andrea Margolis,
FOXNews.com,
23 Aug. 2025
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Centering on an array of people tracking down a rare Native American artifact, the project was the subject of social media debate after collecting a mere $500,000 from its launch in more than 1,100 theaters.—
Ryan Gajewski,
HollywoodReporter,
22 Aug. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Residual.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/residual. Accessed 27 Aug. 2025.
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