What does residual mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈrɛzɪdʊəl/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

Residual refers to something that remains or is left behind after a process, action, or event has occurred. It can also describe a small amount or a trace of something.

Examples

• There was a residual smell of smoke in the house after the fire.
• He felt a residual pain in his leg after the injury.

Synonyms

• Remaining
• Leftover
• Trivial

Antonyms

• Pure
• Fresh
• Clean

Etymology

The word “residual” comes from the Latin word “residuum,” meaning “something left behind.” It has been used in the English language since the 15th century to describe something that remains or is left over.

Additional Information

Residuals can be found in various contexts, including science, literature, and everyday life. In science, residual refers to the remaining amount of a substance after a process or reaction has occurred. In literature, it can describe a character’s feelings or emotions that linger after a significant event has passed.

Residuals can also be seen in the world of finance, where residual value refers to the value of an asset after it has been depreciated. In law, residual refers to the remaining rights or interests that are not affected by a particular agreement or transaction.

In addition, residual can describe a small amount or a trace of something. For example, “There was a residual amount of gas left in the tank.” This can be seen in various contexts, from cooking to chemistry.

Understanding the concept of residual is important in many areas of life, from science and finance to literature and everyday conversations. It can help individuals make informed decisions and understand the complexities of the world around them.

Usage Notes

The word “residual” is often used in formal and technical language, but it can also be used in everyday conversations. However, it’s essential to use it correctly to avoid confusion or misunderstandings.

For example, “The residual heat from the sun can be felt even on cloudy days.” In this sentence, residual refers to the remaining heat from the sun.

Cultural References

The concept of residual has been referenced in various forms of media, including literature and film. For example, in the film “The Hunger Games,” the main character, Katniss, feels a residual sense of dread after a traumatic event.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Residual income
• Residual value
• Residual power
• Residual effects

Related Words or Phrases

• Remaining
• Leftover
• Trivial
• Initial
• Final

Collocations

• Residual heat
• Residual damage
• Residual stress
• Residual risk

Frequency of Use

The word “residual” is not as commonly used as other words in the English language, but it is still widely used in various contexts, including science, literature, and finance.

Common Misspellings

• Residial
• Residuel
• Residul