side effect

== English == === Alternative forms === side-effect === Pronunciation === === Noun === side effect (plural side effects) An unintended consequence, or secondary result, of any action, in addition to the main or intended consequence of that action. Synonym: by-product Coordinate terms: aftereffect, aftermath (medicine) An unintended consequence of a drug or therapy; usually an adverse effect, and not a beneficial one. Hyponym: adverse effect (programming) A change a in state outside of the local environment of the function being called. ==== Usage notes ==== Adjectives that are often applied to side effect: mild, moderate, serious, severe, dangerous, unpleasant, debilitating, negative, positive, nasty, bad, horrible, terrible, painful, unexpected, unintended, strong, obvious, etc. ==== Derived terms ==== ==== Translations ====