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Definition of afterthought

afterthought

/ˈæf.tɚˌθɔːt/
af · ter · thought
Plural:afterthoughts
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afterthought Lexical Profile

afterthought Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Something that is thought of, added, or done later, often without having been part of the original plan or given serious priority.

Example

"Accessibility features should be integrated into the initial architectural design rather than treated as an afterthought."

2

A subsequent reflection or realization regarding a past event or action, especially one that comes too late to alter the outcome.

Example

"Looking back on the debate, he came up with several clever rebuttals as an afterthought."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

aftershow
aftersun
aftertaste
afterthought
afterward
afterword
afterworld

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 16th century as a compound of the prefix 'after-' and the noun 'thought', both tracing back to Old English roots ('æfter' and 'þoht').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Afterthought. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/afterthought
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