Meaning & Definition of word "Afterthought"

Afterthought

/ˈæftərˌθɔt/

1. a thought that occurs after the main thought or action, often as a supplemental idea or consideration.
- Example: The addition of a dessert was an afterthought that pleased the guests.
2. a later consideration or reflection that is not part of a prior plan or decision.
- Example: He included some extra features in the project as an afterthought.
3. a remark or idea that follows the original discussion and is often not essential to the main point.
- Example: Her comment was just an afterthought and added little to the conversation.

From 'after' + 'thought', meaning a thought that follows another.

just an afterthought:

something that is added as an afterthought, not part of the initial plan.

an afterthought of:

a secondary or less important consideration in relation to something else.

aftereffect:

An effect that follows from a cause, especially one that is secondary.

reflection:

The act of being reflective or contemplative, often leading to thoughts that come later.

Meaning: An afterthought can sometimes refer to a spontaneous or last-minute idea.

Example Sentence: Oh, that line was just an afterthought, I didn’t plan to say it.