Afterthought

/ˈæftərˌθɔt/

Meaning & Definition

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

Etymology

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

Common Phrases and Expressions

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.

Related Words

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.

Slang Meanings

An afterthought can sometimes refer to a spontaneous or last-minute idea.
Oh, that line was just an afterthought, I didn’t plan to say it.