Definition of PERIPHERAL (original) (raw)
1
: of, relating to, involving, or forming a periphery or surface part
2
a
: of, relating to, affecting, or being part of the peripheral nervous system
b
: of, relating to, or being blood in the systemic circulation
3
: of, relating to, or being the outer part of the field of vision
: a device connected to a computer to provide communication (such as input and output) or auxiliary functions (such as additional storage)
Did you know?
Your peripheral vision is the outer area of your field of vision, where you can still detect movement and shapes. It can be very valuable when, for instance, you're driving into Chicago at rush hour, especially when switching lanes. When people call an issue in a discussion peripheral, they mean that it's not of primary importance, and they're probably suggesting that everyone get back to the main topic. Peripheral is now also a noun: computer peripherals are the added components—printers, webcams, microphones, etc.—that increase a computer's capacities.
Synonyms
Examples of peripheral in a Sentence
Adjective
If we focus too much on peripheral issues, we will lose sight of the goal. peripheral devices such as modems and scanners He saw in his peripheral vision that a car was trying to pass him.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In some part of his peripheral vision, the Barca winger saw the tackle coming and quickly switched his ball to the right foot – sending Conechny for a hotdog. —
Pol Ballús, The Athletic, 3 Feb. 2025 People see better in their peripheral vision at night, leaving the center of the vision as a black hole. —Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 3 Feb. 2025
This is an excellent gaming investment, possessing a screen that is large enough to play on without the use of a gaming monitor, and a host of USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C and Type A ports keeps your peripherals connected. —Jade Chung-Lee, PCMAG, 22 Jan. 2025 Following that, the company may reveal a new line of peripherals, including a Pro controller. —Michael Gfoeller and David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 16 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for peripheral 
Word History
First Known Use
Adjective
1808, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Noun
1966, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of peripheral was in 1808
Dictionary Entries Near peripheral
Cite this Entry
“Peripheral.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/peripheral. Accessed 12 Feb. 2025.
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Last Updated: 8 Feb 2025 - Updated example sentences
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