aftereffect

[ af-ter-i-fekt, ahf- ]

noun

1. a delayed effect; an effect that follows at some interval after the stimulus that produces it.
2. Medicine/Medical. a result appearing after the first effect due to an agent, usually a drug, has gone.

aftereffect

/ ˈɑːftərɪˌfɛkt /

noun

1. any result occurring some time after its cause
2. med any delayed response to a stimulus or agent Compare side effect
3. psychol any illusory sensation caused by a stimulus that has ceased

Word History and Origins

Origin of aftereffect¹

First recorded in 1810–20; after + effect

Example Sentences

Hollywood’s pipeline may be slowed due to the aftereffects of strikes we’re still dealing with, but our snapshot of the best films of the season is as packed as ever.

From Los Angeles Times

Pankiw is more focused on the aftereffects of trauma on a character who wields quips as both weapon and shield.

From New York Times

The threat comes as a polarized electorate is still feeling the aftereffects of a pandemic that turned many Americans inward and increased reliance on the internet.

From Los Angeles Times

He came from an area of Mississippi devastated by Hurricane Katrina, and today, Raboteau’s family has left due to its aftereffects.

From Los Angeles Times

But it is not disconnected from it; it’s both an aftereffect and a symptom.

From Los Angeles Times