Meaning & Definition of word "Parenthetical"

Parenthetical

/ˌpærənˈθɛtɪkəl/

adjective:

  • 1. of, relating to, or expressed in parentheses.
    • Example: The parenthetical information in the report clarified the main argument.
  • 2. inserted as a parenthesis; not essential to the main point.
    • Example: The parenthetical remarks made the lecture more engaging, though they were not necessary for understanding the topic.

Etymology

From Middle French 'parenthetique', from Latin 'parenthesis'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

parenthetical statement:

A statement that is added to provide extra information.

parenthetical expression:

An expression that is enclosed within parentheses.

Related Words

parenthesis:

A pair of round brackets used to enclose additional information.

interjection:

An abrupt remark, made especially as an aside.

annotation:

A note of explanation or comment added to a text.

Slang Meanings of parenthetical

Meaning: Add-on

Example Sentence: That thought was just an add-on to the main topic.

Meaning: Side note

Example Sentence: She dropped a side note during her lecture that was quite insightful.